NONLINEAR MINIBAND CONDUCTION IN CROSSED ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC-FIELDS

A semi-classical theory of the non-linear miniband conduction in crossed electric and magnetic fields is presented. The Boltzmann transport equation is solved with realistic scattering mechanisms, i.e. electron-phonon scattering and interface potential fluctuations. The technique consists of a characteristic solution of the electron dynamics along the free trajectories associated with an iterative convergent algorithm. The main effect of the transverse magnetic field is interpreted in the frame of the Esaki-Tsu model by the modification of the free trajectories by the Lorentz force which repels the onset of Bragg scattering to higher electric fields. A direct comparison with experimental current-voltage data is performed in taking into account the electric field inhomogeneity.