Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of topological order and its implications for condensed matter physics?
Sample answer:
Topological Order
Topological order refers to the emergence of exotic quantum states in condensed matter systems where the ordering is not described by conventional symmetry breaking mechanisms. Instead, it arises from the interplay of topology and strong correlations.
Key Features of Topological Order
- Non-local Correlations: Topological states exhibit long-range correlations that are non-local in nature.
- Topological Invariants: These states are characterized by topological invariants, which are numbers that remain unchanged under smooth deformations of the system.
- Edge Excitations: Topological phases often have gapless excitations localized at the boundaries or edges of the system.
- Fractionalized Excitations: The excitations of topological states can exhibit fractionalization, where they carry only a portion of the total charge or spin.
- Protection from Local Perturbations: Topological states are robust against local perturbations that do not close the bulk gap.
Implications for Condensed Matter Physics
Topological order has profound implications for our understanding of condensed matter systems:
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