Observation of multiple time crystals in a driven-dissipative system with Rydberg gas

Area of Science:

• Quantum physics
• Condensed matter physics
• Non-equilibrium statistical mechanics

Background:

• Time crystals are novel states of matter exhibiting periodic behavior breaking time translation symmetry.
• Dissipative time crystals in open quantum systems offer unique pathways for realizing time crystalline order.
• Rydberg gases provide a controllable platform for studying strongly interacting quantum phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the observation of multiple distinct time crystal phases within a single experimental system.
• To investigate the role of Rydberg excitation in the emergence of different time crystalline orders.
• To explore the potential of these systems for quantum metrology.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a continuously driven-dissipative and strongly interacting Rydberg gas.
• Manipulating Rydberg excitation parameters to control and observe different time crystal phases.
• Characterizing the temporal dynamics and symmetry breaking of the observed phases.

Main Results:

• Observation of continuous time crystals, sub-harmonic time crystals, and high-harmonic time crystals in the same system.
• Demonstration of the ability to switch between different time crystal phases by tuning Rydberg excitation.
• Evidence of persistent oscillations rooted in emergent quantum correlations.

Conclusions:

• The findings establish a versatile platform for studying non-equilibrium phases of matter.
• Multiple time crystals can be realized and controlled within a single driven-dissipative Rydberg system.
• These time crystals hold promise for advanced quantum metrology, including sensing and parameter estimation beyond the standard quantum limit.