Magnetic Quantum Oscillations in the Auger Transition Rate

The first observation of magnetic quantum effects in Auger recombination is reported. Experiments were carried out with the semiconducting compounds ${\mathrm{Hg}}_{1-x}{\mathrm{Cd}}_x\mathrm{Te}$. In addition to significant oscillations, the lifetime increases strongly with the magnetic field, as a result of the magnetic-field-induced spin polarization. The effect provides a very sensitive method for the determination of band parameters and may give valuable information on the electron-electron interaction in magnetic fields.