2008-04-27

'Quantum Hall-like effect' found in a bulk material without an applied magnetic field

A team of scientists from Princeton University has found that the so called quantum Hall effect, which is observed in two-dimensional electron systems subjected to low temperatures and strong magnetic fields can occur in a bulk crystal of bismuth-antimony without any external magnetic field being present.
This work, could lead to advances in new kinds of fast computing devices, of potential use in future electronic technologies.
clipped from www.princeton.edu
Princeton University

Princeton scientists discover exotic quantum state of matter

'Quantum Hall-like effect' found in a bulk material without an applied magnetic field

The images observed by the Princeton group provide the first direct evidence for quantum Hall-like behavior without external magnetic fields.
Quantum Hall effect
clipped from en.wikipedia.org
Hall effect
Hall effect diagram, showing electron flow (rather than conventional current). Legend: 1. Electrons (not conventional current!) 2. Hall element, or Hall sensor 3. Magnets 4. Magnetic field 5. Power source Description:  In drawing

In drawing "A", the Hall element takes on a negative charge at the top edge (symbolised by the blue color) and positive at the lower edge (red color). In "B" and "C", either the electric current or the magnetic field is reversed, causing the polarization to reverse. Reversing both current and magnetic field (drawing "D") causes the Hall element to again assume a negative charge at the upper edge.
clipped from en.wikipedia.org
Quantum Hall effect
The quantum Hall effect (or integer quantum Hall effect) is a quantum-mechanical version of the Hall effect, observed in two-dimensional electron systems subjected to low temperatures and strong magnetic fields,

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Related:
Scientists discover exotic quantum state of matter
Princeton University - Princeton scientists discover exotic quantum state of matter
Research: Department of Physics, Princeton University
Cava Lab: Professor Robert J. Cava
Hall effect - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Quantum Hall effect - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia