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Charge density waves in disordered media circumventing the Imry-Ma argument
Hitesh J Changlani1, Norm M Tubman1,2, Taylor L Hughes1
1Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.
Disordered one-dimensional systems can host stable ordered states, challenging previous theories. This study demonstrates how correlated disorder circumvents the Imry-Ma argument, enabling discrete broken symmetries in these systems.
Area of Science:
- Condensed matter physics
- Statistical mechanics
- Disordered systems
Background:
- Theoretical predictions like Anderson localization and the Imry-Ma argument restrict possible phases in disordered 1D systems.
- Anderson localization forbids conducting states, while the Imry-Ma argument forbids ordered states.
- Previous work found mechanisms to circumvent Anderson localization using correlated disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if the Imry-Ma argument can be circumvented in disordered 1D systems.
- To explore the formation of stable ordered states with discrete broken symmetries.
- To identify mechanisms through which disorder can destabilize ordered states.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of disordered one-dimensional systems.
- Investigating the effects of correlated disorder on symmetry breaking.
- Exploring phase transitions and stability of ordered states.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that the Imry-Ma argument can be circumvented in disordered 1D systems.
- Showed the formation of stable ordered states with discrete broken symmetries.
- Identified and analyzed mechanisms of disorder-induced destabilization of order.
Conclusions:
- Correlated disorder can enable stable ordered phases in 1D systems, contrary to Imry-Ma predictions.
- The findings open new avenues for understanding emergent order in complex, disordered materials.
- Further research is needed to explore the full implications for condensed matter systems.
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