ABSTRACT
Now the size of the structures that can be produced is approaching the de Broglie wavelength of the electrons in the solids, leading to stronger quantum e˜ects. In addition to interesting new physics, this drive toward smaller length scales has important practical consequences. When semiconductor devices reach about 100 nm, the essentially classical models of their behavior will no longer be valid. It is not yet clear how to make devices and circuits that will operate properly on these smaller scales. ›e replacement for the transistor, which must carry the technology to well below 100 nm, has not been identi-œed. It is anticipated that the semiconductor industry will run up against this “wall” within about 10 years.
