HI,

I believe the answer is close No. Dielectric constant is only a material property. Suppose you have two quantum dots by some distance from each other and each quantum dots has few quantum states identified by wavefunctions and eigen energies. The probability of the particle tunneling increases, when a wave function on one of quantum dots has a overlap with a wave function of another close-by quantum dots. In this simple picture, one can calculate the tunneling probability between two states of two quantum dots. he/she needs to solve the Schrodinger equation to get the eigen energies and wavefunctions. For that and with an approximation model called, "single conduction band" one needs to know the "effective mass of particles" (electron or hole) and the "electrostatic potential profile". Electrostatic potential profile itself depends on the wavefunction, which makes the problem difficult to solve. The way experts handle the problem called "self-consistent solution of Schrodinger and Poisson equations". "Dielectric constant" only influences the Poisson equation and to my experience it is NOT a very important parameters. At the same time, we can not say it has zero influence. What I have trying to explained, is a very complex problem in terms of numerical implementations which is the core of calculations for closed quantum systems. Things like, density function theory (DFT). I hope key words, on my short respond, helps you to some extent. :-).

Thanks for the fairly clear answer.

Dear Vladimir,

we have here the problem of the transmission of a particle through a potential barrier. This is a classic quantum mechanical problem. The transmission probability depends (exponentially) on the barrier (potential) height and the width of the barrier.

With Regards

R. Mitdank

Dear Vladimir,

The potential barrier between the neighboring quantum dot depends on the dielectric constant of the medium between the quantum dots. The potential energy difference between the two quantum dots.= Q/4 Pi epsilon d, where epsilon is the dielectric constant and d is the distance between the two quantum dots. The tunneling will be across this potential barrier.

Best wishes