A remarkable new state of matter has been discovered in a material where it was believed impossible. This breakthrough is prompting scientists to rethink how electrons behave in different materials.
Researchers from around the world found a topological semimetal phase in cerium, ruthenium, and tin (CeRu₄Sn₆). Initially predicted to show up at extremely low temperatures, their experiments confirmed its existence. At these low temperatures, CeRu₄Sn₆ reaches quantum criticality—a state where quantum fluctuations take over. Instead of acting like traditional particles, the material behaves more like waves, reshaping our understanding of quantum physics.
Physicist Qimiao Si from Rice University finds this discovery significant. He explains that combining powerful quantum effects can lead to new materials that enhance quantum computing and sensing technologies. This phase not only shows how topology affects materials but also provides insight into combining quantum criticality and topology, potentially creating materials with unique properties.
Interestingly, the research team discovered that when they chilled CeRu₄Sn₆ and applied an electric charge, they observed the Hall effect without a magnetic field. Normally, the Hall effect requires a magnetic field to influence electron paths. However, in this case, the material’s inherent qualities shaped the current flow, signaling that our understanding of electron interactions and instability needed reevaluation.
The researchers noted a surprising correlation: the areas where electron patterns were most unstable also exhibited the strongest topological effects. Essentially, quantum critical fluctuations helped stabilize this new phase.
Looking ahead, the team is eager to search for this quantum state in other materials. They aim to understand the precise conditions needed for it to occur and what this means for the future of condensed matter physics. Si emphasizes the importance of their findings, which show that strong electron interactions can actually create, rather than sabotage, topological states.
As we move further into the quantum age, this research not only offers theoretical insights but also points to real-world applications. It brings us a step closer to technologies that leverage the complexities of quantum physics to tackle modern challenges.
This study has been published in Nature Physics. For more detailed information, visit the original source: Nature Physics.
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