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Bifurcation of time crystals in driven and dissipative Rydberg atomic gas
Bang Liu1,2, Li-Hua Zhang1,2, Yu Ma1,2
1Key Laboratory of Quantum Information, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026, Hefei, Anhui, China.
Nature Communications
|February 6, 2025
Summary
Researchers observed multiple continuous time crystals in a Rydberg atom system, demonstrating bifurcation and bistability. This breakthrough allows for new ways to control temporal symmetries in non-equilibrium quantum systems.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Many-Body Physics
- Non-Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics
- Condensed Matter Physics
Background:
- Time crystals represent a novel phase of matter breaking time-translational symmetry, distinct from conventional crystals.
- Experimental transitions to time crystal phases from thermal equilibrium are documented, but probing distinct continuous time crystals remains challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally investigate the bifurcation of distinct continuous time crystals in quantum many-body systems.
- To explore complex temporal symmetries beyond single time crystal phases.
- To demonstrate control over time crystal properties in driven-dissipative systems.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a driven and dissipative many-body Rydberg atom system.
- Observed and characterized multiple continuous dissipative time crystals.
- Manipulated driving field parameters to induce and study bifurcation, bistability, and hysteresis.
Main Results:
- Observed multiple continuous dissipative time crystals, exhibiting more complex temporal symmetries.
- Demonstrated the bifurcation of time crystals, transitioning between long and short periodicities.
- Showcased time crystal bistability and hysteresis loops by tuning driving field parameters.
Conclusions:
- The study provides the first experimental method to probe the bifurcation of distinct continuous time crystals.
- These findings open new avenues for controlling and manipulating temporal symmetries in non-equilibrium quantum systems.
- Highlights the potential of Rydberg atom systems for exploring exotic quantum phases and dynamics.
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