A significant implication of the noncommutative band offset behavior noted above is that a potential gradient accompanying the net dipole would be established in superlattices of these materials. This situation is depicted schematically in Figure 6.1b. The potential gradient would ultimately be self-limiting over approximately five superlattice periods as the valence band maximum at one end of the superlattice structure becomes higher in energy than the conduction band minimum at the other end. At this point, carriers would flow and establish a gradient in the direction opposite of that created by the noncommutative band offsets.