The unique signature of a topological surface (IMAGE)

DOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

The unique signature of a topological surface

Caption

This pattern of arrows reflects the combined spin and momentum of electrons in the surface layer of a topological insulator, a quantum material that conducts electric current on its surface but not through its interior. Experiments at SLAC discovered that circularly polarized laser light couples to this spin polarization to produce a unique pattern of high harmonic generation that is a signature of topological surfaces. (Denitsa Baykusheva/Stanford PULSE Institute)

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Denitsa Baykusheva/Stanford PULSE Institute

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