Two-dimensional particles discovered by physicists from the United States
The observed effect, known as weaving, is the most striking proof of the existence of anions - a class of particles that can exist in only two dimensions.
When anions are intertwined, one of them “wraps itself” around the other, changing quantum states. This weaving effect was found in a complex layer of materials.
“This is absolutely convincing evidence of the existence of anions,” says theoretical physicist Frank Wilczek of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who coined the term anion (anyon) in the 1980s. “To see them, you need to rise to a new level.”
In a new study, scientists created a device in which anions moved in a two-dimensional layer branching into two “tracks”. One of them led around other anions located in the center of the device. The other was walking straight. Then these paths connected. During the experiment, the researchers measured the resulting electric current. The additional phase obtained in the bypass path led to noticeable current surges.
Physicists hope that bound anions will be useful in creating quantum computers.
When anions are intertwined, one of them “wraps itself” around the other, changing quantum states. This weaving effect was found in a complex layer of materials.
“This is absolutely convincing evidence of the existence of anions,” says theoretical physicist Frank Wilczek of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who coined the term anion (anyon) in the 1980s. “To see them, you need to rise to a new level.”
In a new study, scientists created a device in which anions moved in a two-dimensional layer branching into two “tracks”. One of them led around other anions located in the center of the device. The other was walking straight. Then these paths connected. During the experiment, the researchers measured the resulting electric current. The additional phase obtained in the bypass path led to noticeable current surges.
Physicists hope that bound anions will be useful in creating quantum computers.
