Rashba coupling in quantum dots: exact solution

Abstract

We present an analytic solution to the problem of the Rashba spin-orbit coupling in semiconductor quantum dots. We calculate the exact energy spectrum, wave-functions, and spin--flip relaxation times. We discuss various effects inaccessible via perturbation theory. In particular, we find that the effective gyromagnetic ratio is strongly suppressed by the spin-orbit coupling. The spin-flip relaxation rate has a maximum as a function of the spin-orbit coupling and is therefore suppressed in both the weak- and strong coupling limits.

5 pages, 4 figs, reference added