MIT physicists discover electrons rebuilding like ice inside a quantum material
MIT physicists have observed how electrons in a quantum material called erbium tritelluride organize into distinct, coexisting phases similar to ice and water. This discovery helps researchers understand how electronic properties like superconductivity emerge, potentially aiding the development of future quantum devices.
Why it matters
Understanding these complex electronic phases is essential for the advancement of next-generation quantum computing and materials science.
A glass of ice water offers a familiar example of two phases existing at the same time. The same substance can appear as both liquid water and solid ice. In certain quantum materials, different phases can also coexist, although the underlying behavior is far more complex.
MIT physicists have now uncovered new details about how two distinct forms of electron organization can emerge within the same quantum material.
The findings, published in Nature Physics , could improve scientists' understanding of materials that display superconductivity, magnetism, and other electronic phases. Learning how these phases arise and interact could eventually help researchers gain greater control over electronic properties and develop more powerful quantum devices.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in