Quantum critical states and phase transitions in the presence of non equilibrium noise

Note: Condensed Matter Theory Seminar, SCI328, 1:50 PM
Speaker: Emanuele Dalla Torre, The Weizmann Institute

When: September 16, 2009 (Wed), 01:50PM to 02:50PM (add to my calendar)
Location: SCI 328

This event is part of the Condensed Matter Theory Seminar Series.

Abstract:
Quantum critical points are characterized by scale invariant correlations and correspondingly long ranged entanglement. We investigate the effect of external noise sources on quantum critical points. It is natural to expect that noise will have a similar effect to finite temperature, destroying the subtle correlations underlying the quantum critical behavior. Surprisingly we find that in many interesting situations the ubiquitous 1/f noise preserves the critical correlations. The emergent states show intriguing interplay of intrinsic quantum critical and external noise driven fluctuations. We demonstrate this general phenomenon with specific examples in solid state and ultracold atomic systems.