A computer-aided approach to teaching band structure formation

Energy band formation can be taught using superlattice miniband calculations through a simple Fortran 77 computer code adaptable to personal computers. The time-independent solution of the Schroedinger equation for a heterostructure stack using a transfer matrix approach is used. The model allows students to observe the effect of electron wavefunction interaction between adjacent quantum wells on energy states. Energy band structure can likewise be plotted as a function of well or barrier width.