Electrons in a crystal exhibit linked and knotted quantum twists

New experiments reveal an elaborate linked quantum structure.

 

An international team of scientists – including two scientists of the MPI CPfS – under the leadership of a Princeton group of physicists has discovered that electrons in quantum matter can link one another. Their work brings together ideas in condensed matter physics and mathematical topology in a new way, raising unexpected questions about the implications of lesser-known topological numbers for the properties of physical systems.
 

As physicists delve deeper into the quantum realm, they are discovering an infinitesimally small world composed of a strange and surprising array of links, knots and winding. Some quantum materials exhibit magnetic whirls called skyrmions — unique configurations described as “subatomic hurricanes.” Others host a form of superconductivity that twists into vortices.

Now, in an article published in Nature a Princeton-led team of physicists has discovered that electrons in quantum matter can link one another. Their work brings together ideas in condensed matter physics and mathematical topology in a new way, raising unexpected questions about the implications of lesser-known topological numbers for the properties of physical systems.

Please find the whole press release here:  Princeton University, May 20, 2022 press release.