Fig. 5: Comparing four consecutive 0 V → 5 V → 0 V → −5 V → 0 V sweeps applied to L1.

a–c, I-V curves, and the intensity variations within A2 and A4 (as defined in m) during cycle #1. d–f, g–i, j–l Corresponding results from cycles #2 to #4. All the insets are corresponding to the regions outlined by the dotted rectangles. An anomalous jump of ΔA2 is highlighted by the shadow in (b). The shadowed peaks, P1–P4 in (i and l) are caused by the rising and dropping ΔA4 before and after the resistive switching (RS), while the glowing lines suggest a constant A4 during the RS. m, n False color HAADF images acquired during the SET and RESET processes of cycle #3. The ΔA2 values are noted on the right. o False color HAADF images acquired during the RESET process of cycle #4. The ΔA2 values are noted on the right. p Enlarged HAADF images showing the evolution of the Ag electrode during cycle #3. The ΔA4 values are noted at the bottom. The red triangles mark the emerging contrast from Ag filaments.