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Observation of nonlinear edge states in an interacting atomic trimer array.
Huiying Du1, Hongxing Zhao1, Yuqing Li2,3,4
1State Key Laboratory of Quantum Optics Technologies and Devices, Institute of Laser Spectroscopy, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China.
Light, Science & Applications
|August 28, 2025
Summary
Researchers synthesized a topological trimer array in ultracold atomic gases, observing nonlinear edge states due to tunable atomic interactions. This opens new avenues for nonlinear topological physics research.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear topological physics
- Ultracold atomic systems
Background:
- Topological states exhibit fascinating properties, but their study in regimes with significant particle interactions (nonlinear regime) is underexplored.
- While topological states are observed in ultracold atoms, nonlinear effects remain elusive in these systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize a topological system in ultracold atomic gases that exhibits tunable nonlinearities.
- To investigate the emergence and characteristics of nonlinear topological states.
- To explore the impact of atomic interactions on topological state dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Laser-driven couplings of discrete atomic momentum states were used to synthesize a topological trimer array.
- Atomic interactions were engineered to introduce tunable nonlinearities.
- Density population evolution and participation ratio were analyzed to observe edge states.
Main Results:
- Formation of nonlinear edge states was observed with increasing atomic interaction strength.
- In contrast to nontopological arrays exhibiting diffusive transport, the topological array showed distinct edge state behavior.
- The influence of interactions on population distribution from single-site initialization was demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully demonstrates the creation of a tunable nonlinear topological system in ultracold atomic gases.
- Emergent nonlinear topological behaviors, specifically nonlinear edge states, were observed and characterized.
- This work paves the way for future investigations into nonlinear topological phenomena in quantum systems.
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