Rashba Spin-Orbit Coupling, Strong Interactions, and the BCS-BEC Crossover in the Ground State of the Two-Dimensional...

Area of Science:

• Quantum physics
• Condensed matter physics
• Ultracold atomic gases

Background:

• Experimental realization of spin-orbit coupled Fermi gases offers a unique platform.
• Studying the interplay between strong interactions and spin-orbit coupling (SOC) is crucial.
• Tunable, disorder-free systems are ideal for fundamental physics investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present precision ab initio numerical results for a 2D, unpolarized, uniform Fermi gas.
• To investigate attractive interactions and Rashba SOC in this system.
• To provide accurate benchmarks for theoretical models and experimental guidance.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the auxiliary-field quantum Monte Carlo method.
• Incorporating recent algorithmic advancements for exact calculations.
• Performing calculations on sufficiently large system sizes for accuracy.

Main Results:

• Obtained the equation of state for the system.
• Calculated momentum distributions and pseudospin correlations.
• Characterized the pair wave functions, revealing SOC-induced pairing structures.

Conclusions:

• Spin-orbit coupling induces a rich pairing structure in Fermi gases.
• The study provides accurate benchmarks for theoretical predictions.
• Results offer guidance for future experimental efforts in ultracold atomic gases.