Observation of a Time Quasicrystal and Its Transition to a Superfluid Time Crystal

S. Autti, V. B. Eltsov, G. E. Volovik

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Abstract

We report experimental realization of a quantum time quasicrystal and its transformation to a quantum time crystal. We study Bose-Einstein condensation of magnons, associated with coherent spin precession, created in a flexible trap in superfluid He3-B. Under a periodic drive with an oscillating magnetic field, the coherent spin precession is stabilized at a frequency smaller than that of the drive, demonstrating spontaneous breaking of discrete time translation symmetry. The induced precession frequency is incommensurate with the drive, and hence, the obtained state is a time quasicrystal. When the drive is turned off, the self-sustained coherent precession lives a macroscopically long time, now representing a time crystal with broken symmetry with respect to continuous time translations. Additionally, the magnon condensate manifests spin superfluidity, justifying calling the obtained state a time supersolid or a time supercrystal.

Original languageEnglish
Article number215301
Pages (from-to)1-5
JournalPhysical Review Letters
Volume120
Issue number21
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 May 2018
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

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