Magnetic field dependence of quantum dot ground states

We study the ground states of a planar quantum dot with N = 5,6,7 electrons, in the presence of a perpendicular magnetic field. Using a spatially unrestricted Hartree Fock technique followed by spin and angular momentum symmetry restoration, chemical potentials are calculated and transitions between different ground states are identified. A spin blockade in the 6 -> 7 transition is found. The structure of the quantum dot wave functions is illustrated by their electron densities. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.