Condensed Matter Theory

Abstract:

We consider a bilayer quantum Hall system at total filling fraction ν=2 in tilted magnetic field allowing for charge imbalance as well as tunneling between the two layers. Using an "unrestricted Hartree Fock," previously discussed by Burkov and MacDonald [Phys. Rev. B 66, 115323 (2002)], we examine the zero-temperature global phase diagrams that would be accessed experimentally by changing the in-plane field and the bias, voltage between the layers while keeping the tunneling between the two layers fixed. In accordance with previous work, we find symmetric and ferromagnetic phases as well as a first-order transition between two canted phases with spontaneously broken U(1) symmetry. We find that these two canted phases are topologically connected in the phase diagram and, reminiscent of a first-order liquid-gas transition, the first-order transition line between these two phases ends in a quantum critical point. We develop a physical picture of these two phases and describe in detail the physics of the transition.

Abstract:

We use a three-dimensional lattice Boltzmann model to investigate the spreading of mesoscopic droplets on homogeneous and heterogeneous surfaces. On a homogeneous substrate the base radius of the droplet grows with time as t 0.28 for a range of viscosities and surface tensions. The time evolutions collapse onto a single curve as a function of a dimensionless time. On a surface comprising of alternate lyophobic and lyophilic stripes the wetting velocity is anisotropic and the equilibrium shape of the droplet reflects the wetting properties of the underlying substrate. © 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract:

We propose a very simple one-dimensional swimmer consisting of three spheres that are linked by rigid rods whose lengths can change between two values. With a periodic motion in a nonreciprocal fashion, which breaks the time-reversal symmetry as well as the translational symmetry, we show that the model device can swim at low Reynolds number. This model system could be used in constructing molecular-sized machines. © 2004 The American Physical Society.