Gate controlled quantum interference: direct observation of anti-resonances in single molecule charge transport

Abstract: Quantum interference can profoundly affect charge transport in single molecules, but experiments can usually measure only the conductance at the Fermi energy. Because in general the most pronounced features of the quantum interference are not located at the Fermi energy, it is highly desirable to probe charge transport in a broader energy range. Here by the method of electrochemical gating, we measure the conductance and map the transmission functions of single molecules at and around the Fermi energy, and study signatures associated with constructive and destructive interference. With the electrochemical gate control, we tune the quantum interference between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), and directly observe anti-resonance, a distinct feature of destructive interference. By tuning the molecule in and out of anti-resonance, we achieve continuous control of the conductance over 2 orders of magnitude with a subthreshold swing of ~17 mV/dec, features relevant to high-speed and low-power electronics.