Space-time crystals from particle-like topological solitons
Overview
Paper Summary
Researchers created continuous space-time crystals (CSTCs) in a nematic liquid crystal using constant, ambient-power light. These CSTCs, made of topological solitons, spontaneously break time-translation symmetry and are robust against perturbations, meeting criteria for time crystal classification.
Explain Like I'm Five
Imagine a crystal that repeats not just in space, but also in time! Scientists made these "time crystals" by shining light on a liquid, creating repeating patterns that change predictably over time.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
The authors have a patent application related to CSTCs submitted by the University of Colorado concurrently with this paper (US patent application no. 63/764,363).
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This study presents a novel observation of continuous space-time crystals in a classical system. The experimental and theoretical work are well-integrated, and the findings meet established criteria for time crystal classification. While questions remain about generalizability and long-term stability, the work is a valuable contribution to the field. The disclosed conflict of interest related to the patent application has been taken into account when assessing the rating.
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