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Quantum spin liquids: Can an insulator have a Fermi surface?

TYPEColloquium
Speaker:Dr. Daniel Podolsky
Affiliation:Physics-Technion
Date:21.10.2010
Time:16:30
Location:Lidow Rosen Auditorium (323)
Abstract:A quantum spin liquid is a state of matter with strong spin correlations over short distances, but in which quantum fluctuations and geometrical frustration impede the formation of long-range order, leading instead to a fluid-like state over long distances.  Although the experimental detection of such a state has remained elusive, the potential payoff for its observation is great, with rich physical consequences such as fractional particles and emergent gauge fields.  Recently, a host of promising new materials has been discovered which may provide the first experimental examples of spin liquids.  I will discuss recent experimental and theoretical developments in this field.