In the realm of energy research, understanding phase transitions and the behavior of materials under different conditions is crucial for developing new technologies. A recent study by Naren Manjunath and Dominic V. Else, researchers at the University of Oxford, delves into the complex world of phase transitions and topological defects in both quantum and classical systems. Their work, published in the journal Physical Review B, explores higher-codimension topological defects and introduces the concept of “diabolical critical points” (DCPs).
Phase transitions, such as the shift from a solid to a liquid state, are well-understood phenomena in the energy sector. These transitions occur when a system crosses a critical point in its parameter space, leading to a change in its equilibrium state. Manjunath and Else’s research builds on this foundation by examining topological defects of higher codimension, which are more complex structures that can influence the behavior of equilibrium states.
The researchers demonstrate that these higher-codimension topological defects exist not only in quantum systems but also in classical statistical mechanical systems. They describe the general structure of these defects and introduce the concept of DCPs, which are higher-codimension analogs of continuous phase transitions. Unlike traditional phase transitions, DCPs involve a non-trivial winding of the proximate equilibrium states rather than a change in the phases of matter.
Manjunath and Else propose specific conditions under which a system can have a stable DCP, providing a framework for identifying and studying these phenomena. They also discuss examples of stable DCPs in (1+1)-dimensional quantum systems, offering insights into the behavior of these complex structures.
For the energy industry, understanding these advanced concepts can lead to the development of new materials and technologies. For instance, the ability to manipulate phase transitions and topological defects could improve energy storage systems, enhance the efficiency of energy conversion processes, and enable the creation of novel materials for energy applications. While the practical applications of this research are still in the early stages, the foundational knowledge provided by Manjunath and Else’s work could pave the way for future innovations in the energy sector.
Source: Manjunath, N., & Else, D. V. (2023). In search of diabolical critical points. Physical Review B, 107(10), 105130.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.