Spin precession induced by an effective magnetic field in a two-dimensional electron gas

We theoretically study the spatial behaviors of the spin precession in a two-dimensional electron system with spin-orbit interaction. Through analysis of interaction between the spin and the effective magnetic field in the system, we obtain the general conditions to generate a persistent spin helix and predict a persistent spin helix pattern in [001]-grown quantum wells. Particularly, we demonstrate that the phase of spin can be locked to propagate in a quantum well with SU(2) symmetry.

973 Program 2006CB604908 2006CB921607 National Natural Science Foundation of China 60625402 The work was supported by the 973 Program (Grant Nos. 2006CB604908 and 2006CB921607) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 60625402).