Communication: Momentum-resolved quantum interference in optically excited surface states

Abstract

Surface states play essential roles in condensed matter physics, e.g., as model two-dimensional (2D) electron gases and as the basis for topological insulators. Here, we demonstrate quantum interference in the optical excitation of 2D surface states using the model system of C60Au(111). These surface states are transiently populated and probed in a femtosecond time- and angle-resolved two-photon photoemission experiment. We observe quantum interference within the excited populations of these surface states as a function of parallel momentum vector. Such quantum interference in momentum space may allow one to control 2D transport properties by optical fields. © 2011 American Institute of Physics.