Quantized classical response from spectral winding topology.

Area of Science:

• Condensed matter physics
• Topological physics
• Classical systems

Background:

• Quantized response is a key concept in quantum systems, linked to topology via linear response theory.
• Previously, quantized response was not considered possible in classical systems.
• Classical systems can exhibit topological features like edge states.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and define a new paradigm: quantized classical response.
• To demonstrate this phenomenon in classical systems using spectral properties.
• To establish a connection between spectral winding numbers and quantized classical response.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the spectral winding number in the complex spectral plane.
• Analyzing phenomenological non-Hermitian settings.
• Investigating steady-state responses without conventional linear response theory.
• Examining the ratio of signal amplification change to imaginary flux variation.

Main Results:

• Discovery of quantized classical response, a novel phenomenon.
• Quantized response values are determined by spectral winding numbers.
• Observed plateaus in response ratios, indicating quantization.
• Demonstrated that quantized response can occur in classical, non-Hermitian systems.

Conclusions:

• Quantized classical response is a new paradigm distinct from quantum topological response.
• Spectral winding numbers serve as topological invariants for classical quantized response.
• This finding opens new avenues for understanding topological phenomena in classical physics.