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Polariton superfluids reveal quantum hydrodynamic solitons
1Laboratoire Kastler Brossel, Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6, École Normale Supérieure et CNRS, UPMC Case 74, 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France. alberto.amo@lpn.cnrs.fr
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 4, 2011
Summary
Quantum fluids exhibit unique behaviors around obstacles, transitioning from superfluidity to forming solitons and vortex streets at higher velocities. This study observes these phenomena in exciton-polaritons, advancing quantum turbulence research.
Area of Science:
- Quantum fluid dynamics
- Condensed matter physics
- Semiconductor microcavities
Background:
- Classical fluids form waves and whirlpools around obstacles.
- Quantum fluids, like Bose gases, are predicted to exhibit different behaviors, including quantized vortices and solitons at higher flow velocities.
- Exciton-polaritons in semiconductor microcavities offer a unique platform to study quantum fluid phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the behavior of a quantum fluid (exciton-polaritons) interacting with a potential barrier.
- To observe the transition from superfluidity to hydrodynamic phenomena.
- To study the formation of topological excitations like dark solitons and vortex streets.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing an interacting Bose gas of exciton-polaritons in a semiconductor microcavity.
- Introducing a potential barrier to perturb the quantum fluid.
- Directly observing the resulting flow dynamics and topological excitations.
Main Results:
- Observed the transition from a superfluid regime to hydrodynamic flow as velocity increased.
- Reported the formation of oblique dark solitons and vortex streets in the wake of the barrier.
- Provided direct visual evidence of these topological excitations.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates the transition from superfluidity to hydrodynamic phenomena in exciton-polaritons.
- Direct observation of dark solitons and vortex streets offers insights into superflow mechanisms.
- Polariton condensates are a promising system for exploring quantum turbulence.
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