What does WQW mean in UNCLASSIFIED

WQW stands for Wide Quantum Wells, which are structures used in semiconductor physics and optoelectronics.

A WQW structure consists of two or more parallel layers of different semiconductors that are separated by a barrier layer made of the same material as one of the other layers.

WQWs can be used to create nano-scale devices such as transistors, lasers, and LEDs.

In order for electrons to move between the layers, they must gain enough energy from an external source that is equal to or greater than the barrier height separating them. Once this energy threshold has been reached, electrons can travel through the quantum well freely due to their reduced mass in comparison to larger particles in traditional wells. This process enables quantum tunneling which allows electrons to escape from the wells without having enough energy to do so otherwise.

The main advantage of using a quantum well rather than a traditional well is its ability to efficiently transfer electrical signals with very low power consumption due to its reduced materials thickness. Additionally, because quantum wells confine electrons within smaller areas relative to those in traditional wells, they allow for higher densities of current flow per unit area and enable faster switching times when compared with their classical counterparts.