Abstract
We consider the effect of elasticity on torsional oscillator experiments to investigate the possible supersolidity of helium. We show that in most, and possibly all torsional oscillators there is a significant and hitherto unconsidered contribution to the torsional period from the helium elasticity. This effect needs to be carefully considered before it can be concluded that a supersolid component is indeed present.
- Received 30 May 2012
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.86.020502
©2012 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Solid Thinking on Supersolidity
Published 12 July 2012
What looks like supersolidity in helium could actually be the result of changes in helium’s elasticity, according to theory.
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