Influence of a heterogeneous Al2O3 surface on the electronic properties of single pd atoms -: art. no. 046808

Electronic properties of single Pd atoms, deposited on Al2O3/NiAl(110), have been characterized by scanning tunneling spectroscopy at 12 K. The spectra reveal distinct conductivity resonances, assigned to discrete electronic levels in the atom. The energy position of the resonances reflects adsorption properties of Pd atoms on different sites of the oxide support. Mapping the spatial extent of conductivity channels in the Pd atoms yields the symmetry of the underlying electronic states. The results demonstrate the effect of a heterogeneous oxide surface on the electronic structure of adsorbed metal atoms.