Spin-dependent type-I, type-II behavior in a quantum well system

Abstract

Optical investigations of ZnSe/Zn1-xFexSe quantum wells reveal a system in which the magnetic-field-induced spin splitting of the valence band in the barrier layers overwhelms the zero-field, natural band offset. This results in type-I behavior for one spin state (holes confined to the wells), and type-II behavior for the other spin state (holes confined to the barriers). Strongly asymmetric spin splittings are observed, and the asymmetry associated with this spin segregation of the holes provides an accurate measure of the valence-band offset in this unique system. © 1989 The American Physical Society.