title: A terahertz molecular switch.
abstract: We present time-dependent results describing the current through a molecular device, modeled as a complex with two active centers connected to leads under bias. We show that, at a properly adjusted external voltage, a passing terahertz electromagnetic pulse may cause a transition between states of finite and negligible current, suggesting that the system might be useful as a nanoscopic switch in the terahertz range. A phase diagram defining the bias region in which the transition takes place within a short time is given. As described, the physical processes involved are of an entirely different nature than those in ordinary photodetectors.
authors.affiliation: Departamento de Física, Universidad Católica del Norte, Angamos 0610, Casilla 1280, Antofagasta, Chile.
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Orellana
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Claro