Topological Phases of Matter
Topological phases of matter are states of matter that are characterized by their global properties rather than local ones. These phases are defined by the arrangement and connectivity of particles, which can lead to unique behaviors, such as conducting electricity without dissipation. Examples include topological insulators and quantum Hall states, which exhibit robust edge states that are protected from disorder.
These phases arise from the underlying symmetries and topological features of the system. Unlike traditional phases, such as solids or liquids, topological phases remain stable under continuous deformations. This stability makes them promising for applications in quantum computing and other advanced technologies.