Abstract
Strongly correlated quantum systems can exhibit exotic behavior controlled by topology. We predict that the fractional Chern insulator arises naturally in a two-dimensional array of driven, dipolar-interacting spins. As a specific implementation, we analyze how to prepare and detect synthetic gauge potentials for the rotational excitations of ultracold polar molecules trapped in a deep optical lattice. With the motion of the molecules pinned, under certain conditions, these rotational excitations form a fractional Chern insulating state. We present a detailed experimental blueprint for its realization and demonstrate that the implementation is consistent with near-term capabilities. Prospects for the realization of such phases in solid-state dipolar systems are discussed as are their possible applications.
- Received 11 January 2013
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.110.185302
© 2013 American Physical Society
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Toward Fractional Quantum Hall Physics with Cold Atoms
Published 29 April 2013
Researchers propose new ways to recreate fractional quantum Hall physics using ultracold atoms and molecules.
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