Synthetic Gauge Structures in Real Space in a Ring lattice

Area of Science:

• Quantum Physics
• Particle Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics

Background:

• Fundamental forces in the universe emerge from gauge symmetry, a key concept in physics.
• These symmetries are typically hidden within the internal properties of subatomic particles.
• Studying gauge structures in real space offers a new avenue for understanding these fundamental interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and model a method for realizing and studying gauge structures in real space.
• To investigate both Abelian and non-Abelian gauge constructs using ultracold atoms in a ring-shaped lattice potential.
• To explore the potential for mapping gauge field dynamics over macroscopic scales.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a ring-shaped lattice potential to create synthetic gauge fields.
• Leveraging the analogy between geometric phase and gauge potentials.
• Employing ultracold atoms with controllable internal and external degrees of freedom.
• Scaling the system to an array with spatially varying parameters.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the possibility of realizing both Abelian and non-Abelian gauge structures in real space.
• Showcased the creation of non-trivial Wilson loops through physical motion within the system.
• Established a discrete gauge field in position space by scaling the experimental setup.
• Mapped the dynamics of the gauge field over macroscopic size and time scales.

Conclusions:

• The proposed model provides a viable platform for experimentally studying gauge theories in real space.
• This approach allows for the investigation of fundamental physics using controllable quantum systems.
• The ability to map dynamics on macroscopic scales opens new possibilities for quantum simulation and discovery.