Topological water wave states in a one-dimensional structure

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Fluid Dynamics
• Wave Phenomena

Background:

• Topological concepts are established in electronic, photonic, and phononic systems.
• Their application to surface water waves remains unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate topological properties in a one-dimensional periodic resonant surface water wave system.
• To demonstrate topological transitions and their characteristics in water waves.

Main Methods:

• Constructing a periodic system with an array of cylindrical water tanks connected by narrow channels.
• Varying water depths to create shallow, intermediate, and deep water wave conditions.
• Analyzing band diagrams and Zak phase to identify topological transitions.

Main Results:

• A topological transition was observed in the band diagram as the channel width varied.
• This transition was confirmed across shallow, intermediate, and deep water wave regimes.
• Interface states at topological boundaries showed distinct bands for different water depths.

Conclusions:

• This research pioneers the study of topological properties in water wave systems.
• The findings demonstrate the feasibility of topological transitions in periodic water waves.
• The work opens avenues for novel water wave management strategies.