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Chirality-Induced Majorana Zero Modes and Majorana Polarization
Song Chen1, Hua-Hua Fu1,2
1School of Physics and Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China.
Researchers discovered a new method to create Majorana zero modes (MZMs) in topological superconductors using chiral helix molecules. This chirality-induced Majorana polarization (CIMP) offers a novel way to control and detect these elusive particles.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Quantum Physics
Background:
- Realizing Majorana Fermions is a significant challenge in topological superconductors.
- Topological superconductors are exotic states of matter with potential applications in quantum computing.
- Controlling and detecting Majorana zero modes (MZMs) is crucial for advancing this field.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a physical mechanism and material platform for realizing Majorana zero modes (MZMs).
- To investigate the role of structural chirality in the generation and properties of MZMs.
- To establish a method for controlling and detecting MZMs via chirality-induced effects.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing open circular helix molecules (CHMs) proximity coupled with s-wave superconductors.
- Employing interconnected-CHM chains coupled with phase-bias s-wave superconducting heterostructures.
- Investigating the relationship between structural chirality, Majorana polarization (MP), and chirality-induced spin polarization (CISP).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a material platform for generating MZMs associated with CHM structural chirality.
- Introduced chirality-induced Majorana polarization (CIMP), where handedness dictates Majorana polarization.
- Established a link between CIMP and chirality-induced spin polarization (CISP), enabling MZM regulation.
Conclusions:
- The proposed mechanism provides an effective route to realize and control MZMs.
- Chirality-induced Majorana polarization (CIMP) offers a novel approach to manipulate Majorana zero modes.
- Spin-polarized current measurements related to the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect can detect MZMs.
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