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Detection of the phase shift from a single Abrikosov vortex
1Department of Physics, Stockholm University, AlbaNova University Center, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
Physical Review Letters
|September 28, 2010
Summary
A single Abrikosov vortex in a superconductor induces a controllable quantum phase shift. This vortex acts as a tunable "phase battery," enabling reversible switching of Josephson junctions into the 0-π state for quantum electronics.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Superconductivity
Background:
- Abrikosov vortices are quantized magnetic flux lines in superconductors.
- Josephson junctions are sensitive detectors of quantum phase differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the quantum mechanical phase rotation induced by a single Abrikosov vortex.
- To utilize a Josephson junction as a phase-sensitive detector for this phenomenon.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a Josephson junction at the edge of a superconducting lead.
- Using the Josephson junction to detect the phase shift induced by an Abrikosov vortex.
Main Results:
- Observed a Josephson phase shift equal to the vortex's polar angle.
- Demonstrated vortex-induced π step in Josephson phase difference.
- Achieved controllable and reversible switching of the junction into the 0-π state.
- Observed unusual Φ(0)/2 flux quantization.
Conclusions:
- A single Abrikosov vortex can act as a tunable
- phase battery
- for quantum electronic applications.
- The vortex-induced phase shift offers a new method for controlling quantum states in Josephson junctions.
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