Quantum Hall effect at weak magnetic field: New float-up picture

Sheng, D. N.; Weng, Z. Y.; Wen, X. G.

Quantum Hall effect at weak magnetic field: New float-up picture

Authors

Sheng, D. N.

Weng, Z. Y.

Wen, X. G.

Description

The fate of integer quantum Hall effect (IQHE) at weak magnetic field is studied numerically in the presence of {\it correlated} disorders. We find a systematic {\it float-up} and {\it merging} picture for extended levels on the low-energy side which results in direct transitions from higher-plateau IQHE states to the insulator. Such direct transitions are controlled by a quantum critical point with a {\it universal} scaling form of conductance. The phase diagram is in good agreement with recent experiments. The issue of continuum vs. lattice model is also discussed.
4 pages, 4 figures