In Theory Seminar

Speaker: Senthil Todadri (MIT) Title: Anyons in quantum matter: A new beginning Abstract: The characterization of identical quantum particles as bosons or fermions goes back to the early days of quantum mechanics. It was realized much later that in two space dimensions, particles with any statistics (`anyons’) can exist. Such particles can emerge as quasiparticles in quantum phases of matter. The prime experimental example is in the Fractional Quantum Hall Effect (FQHE). After a brief review of the FQHE, I will discuss recent developments on the observation of the phenomenon in zero magnetic field, and the associated questions and opportunities.