Theoretical Physics Seminar – Wilhelm Zwerger

Wilhelm Zwerger: Superfluid Liquid Crystals and Supersolids

Abstract

The talk will provide an introduction to the concept of supersolids. Generically, this requires a finite density of defects in the ground state, as first suggested by Andreev and Lifshitz. As a concrete example we discuss dipolar gases and show that the transition to the supersolid phase is of first order, preempting the standard  roton instability. A general hydrodynamic theory is presented for supersolids  with a density modulation along a single direction. It displays two propagating  modes associated with the two Independent broken continuous symmetries.  One of them describes the ballistic propagation of defects, thus generalizing the diffusive permeation mode of classical smectic-A liquid crystals.

The seminar will be held in hybrid form

You can attend either in person or via Zoom.

Location: PJ lecture room, Department of Physics, Kemigården 1, Gothenburg
Zoom-link: https://gu-se.zoom.us/j/68654155504

Read more about the seminar series

Theoretical Physics Seminar