Scientists stumble on a hidden quantum trick in 2D materials

Scientists from Columbia University and the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter have discovered a new property in two-dimensional materials that could explain the formation of quantum phases like superconductivity. Using terahertz spectroscopy, they found that thin layers of 2D materials can naturally form cavities that confine light and electrons, altering their interactions. This discovery offers insights into controlling these quantum effects for potential future technologies. The research was conducted at the Max Planck-New York Center on Nonequilibrium Quantum Phenomena, a collaboration involving Columbia University, the Flatiron Institute, and Cornell University. The team developed a chip-sized spectroscope to compress terahertz light to observe electron movement within 2D materials like graphene.

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