| In this thesis, we present a systematic study of the electron-phonon interaction in quasi-two-dimensional systems. The main theme of the study is to achieve a complete understanding of the electron-phonon interactions, especially the electron-interface-phonon interaction, in semiconductor quantum wells (QW) and related structures. The major body of the thesis can be divided into several parts. First, the phonon modes in QW are completely solved and classified, yielding rich information about both the confined- and the interface-phonon modes (73). Second, the electron-phonon-interaction Hamiltonian is derived for the realistic phonon modes in QW structures (74,75). Using this Hamiltonian, we have made a systematic study of the electron-phonon interactions in QW for a wide range of problems, including the polaron effect (76), resonant magneto-polarons (77,78), and magnetic field effects on the electron-phonon couplings in QW (79). These studies have clarified many aspects of the electron-phonon interaction in QW that were previously unclear and have yielded new information about the effects of confinement and interface-phonons in these systems.; In writing this thesis, I have tried to concentrate on physical insights instead of mathematical details. The mathematical procedures are, however, clearly explained and can be followed through if so desired. Some background materials are given when necessary. |
