This work studies coupled quantum dots with atomistic theory, emphasizing how tunneling, strain, and valence-band complexity reshape the molecular-like spectrum. It goes beyond simple bonding–antibonding intuition whenever realistic hole physics becomes important.
Keywords: quantum dot molecules
Main result: realistic coupling in quantum-dot molecules can reorder levels and qualitatively modify the nature of the lowest hole and excitonic states. Atomistic details are essential to correctly identify bonding versus antibonding behavior.