A short guide to topological terms in the effective theories of condensed matter. Issue 1 (18th February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tanaka, Akihiro; Takayoshi, Shintaro
• Is Part Of: Science and technology of advanced materials. Volume 16:Issue 1(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-02-18
• Subjects: topological terms -- effective action -- quantum magnetism -- superfluids -- symmetry-protected topological phases; Materials -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; 620.112
• DOI: 10.1088/1468-6996/16/1/014404
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1468-6996

Abstract

Abstract: This article is meant as a gentle introduction to the topological terms that often play a decisive role in effective theories describing topological quantum effects in condensed matter systems. We first take up several prominent examples, mainly from the area of quantum magnetism and superfluids/superconductors. We then briefly discuss how these ideas are now finding incarnations in the studies of symmetry-protected topological phases, which are in a sense a generalization of the concept of topological insulators to a wider range of materials, including magnets and cold atoms.