Effect of Modulation Source Properties upon Signal-To-Noise Ratios of Inelastic Electron Tunneling Spectra

Lock-in amplification using ac modulation and second-harmonic detection is routinely employed in such techniques as ac polarography, ac voltammetry, and inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS). Properties of the modulation source are shown in the present IET studies to limit the obtainable signal-to-noise ratio of a spectrum. A single inelastic electron tunneling junction is used to demonstrate the effect of various commercial modulation sources on the IET spectrum of benzoic acid on alumina. With all other parameters being held constant, the signal-to-noise ratio of the IET spectrum is found to be inversely correlated with the total harmonic distortion of the modulation source.