A team of researchers from Rice University has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of quantum physics, observing an exotic quantum phase once thought impossible. The phenomenon, known as superradiant phase transition (SRPT), occurs when two groups of quantum particles start fluctuating together without any external trigger.
The researchers used a crystal composed of erbium, iron, and oxygen that was cooled to extremely low temperatures and exposed to a powerful magnetic field. By coupling the spin fluctuations of two distinct magnetic subsystems – iron ions and erbium ions within the crystal – they were able to observe SRPT for the first time.
Until now, whether or not SRPT could occur was subject to debate due to a limitation known as “no-go theorem” in theoretical physics. However, by creating a magnonic version of the phenomenon using magnetic interactions between two spin subsystems, the researchers were able to overcome this barrier and create a new state of matter.
The discovery opens up new pathways for revolutionary applications in quantum computing, communication, and sensing. The collective quantum states at SRPT have unique properties that could be harnessed for next-generation quantum technologies. This breakthrough also shows that concepts from quantum optics can be translated into solid materials.
The research has significant implications for quantum technology, including the development of ultrastrong couplings between spin systems and improved measurement precision. It also marks a significant breakthrough in understanding and exploiting intrinsic quantum interactions within materials.
This achievement demonstrates the potential of new approaches to creating and controlling phases of matter using ideas from cavity quantum electrodynamics. The discovery also paves the way for exploring quantum phenomena in other materials with similarly interacting magnetic components.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2025-04-scientists-exotic-quantum-phase-thought.html