quantum dot

from The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)

quantum dot
single-electron transistor

   <physics> (Or "single-electron transistor") A location capable
   of containing a single electrical charge; i.e., a single
   electron of {Coulomb} charge.  Physically, quantum dots are
   nanometer-size {semiconductor} structures in which the
   presence or absence of a quantum electron can be used to store
   information.

   See also: {quantum cell}, {quantum cell wire}, {quantum-dot
   cellular automata}.

   (http://www-mtl.mit.edu/MTL/bulletin/v6n2/Kumar.html).

   ["Quantum Dot Heterostructures", D. Bimberg, et al, John
   Wiley & Sons Ltd., Dec 1998].

   (2001-07-17)