Arithmetic of the integer quantum hall effect

Abstract

The integer quantum Hall effect (IQHE) is analysed, considering the degeneracies of localized and extended states separately. Occupied localized and extended states are counted, and their variation is studied as a function of magnetic field. The number of current-carrying electrons is found to have a saw-tooth variation with magnetic field. The analysis addresses certain basic questions in the IQHE, particularly the one about floatation of extended states as the magnetic field tends to zero.