Energetic favorite of quantum dot formation in ring-shaped InP quantum-dot molecules

We use energetic arguments to describe a scenario of self-assembled InP quantum dot (QD) formation during crystallization of indium nanodroplet. Competition between strain energy and surface energy of a homogeneous circular ring and a ring-shaped QD molecule results in QD formation at critical ring size. From the described process, we expect to extend our ability to realize complex nanostructures, which might be promising for future electronic and photonic applications.