Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of symmetry breaking in condensed matter physics?
Sample answer:
Symmetry breaking in condensed matter physics is a phenomenon where a system undergoes a phase transition and loses some of its symmetry. This can occur spontaneously or be induced by external factors such as temperature, pressure, or magnetic field.
There are many different types of symmetry that can be broken in condensed matter systems, including translational symmetry, rotational symmetry, and time-reversal symmetry. Translational symmetry breaking occurs when the system develops a periodic structure, such as a crystal. Rotational symmetry breaking occurs when the system develops a preferred orientation, such as a nematic liquid crystal. Time-reversal symmetry breaking occurs when the system exhibits different behavior when time is reversed, such as a ferromagnet.
Symmetry breaking can have a profound effect on the properties of a material. For example, the breaking of translational symmetry in a crystal can lead to the formation of energy bands and the emergence of electronic properties such as conductivity and magnetism. The breaking of rotational symmetry in a nematic liquid crystal can lead to the formation of optical textures that can be used in display devices. The breaking of time-reversal symmetry in a ferromagnet can lead to the formation of magnetic domains and the e… Read full answer
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