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Matter-wave bright solitons in spin-orbit coupled Bose-Einstein condensates
V Achilleos1, D J Frantzeskakis, P G Kevrekidis
1Department of Physics, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Zografos, Athens 15784, Greece.
Physical Review Letters
|July 16, 2013
Summary
We investigated bright solitons in spin-orbit coupled Bose-Einstein condensates. Analytical and numerical methods revealed solitons can exhibit sech2 or modulated profiles, showing robustness for experiments.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Atomic, molecular, and optical physics
- Condensed matter physics
Background:
- Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) are quantum states of matter with unique properties.
- Spin-orbit coupling (SOC) introduces complex behaviors in BECs.
- Bright solitons are stable, localized wave packets crucial for quantum information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore matter-wave bright solitons in spin-orbit coupled BECs with attractive interactions.
- To identify families of soliton solutions using analytical and numerical techniques.
- To characterize the density profiles and stability of these solitons under varying conditions.
Main Methods:
- Employed a multiscale expansion method for analytical solutions.
- Investigated chemical potentials within the semi-infinite gap of the linear energy spectrum.
- Performed numerical simulations to validate analytical findings.
Main Results:
- Identified soliton solutions with either a sech2-shaped or a modulated density profile.
- Observed that the profile depends on linear and spin-orbit coupling strengths.
- Demonstrated excellent agreement between analytical predictions and numerical results.
Conclusions:
- Spin-orbit coupling in attractive BECs supports robust bright solitons.
- The soliton density profile can mimic the stripe phase seen in repulsive BECs.
- Findings suggest potential for experimental realization and applications of these solitons.
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