Vortex lattice transitions in cyclic spinor condensates

TL;DR

This paper investigates the complex vortex lattice structures in cyclic spinor Bose condensates, revealing multiple lattice geometries and phase transitions driven by magnetic fields and temperature variations.

Contribution

It introduces new vortex lattice configurations and predicts field- and temperature-induced transitions in cyclic spinor condensates.

Findings

Prediction of a transition from triangular to honeycomb lattice driven by magnetic field.

Identification of temperature-dependent lattice transitions involving aperiodic structures.

Discovery of complex vortex arrangements beyond the traditional triangular lattice.

Abstract

We study the energetics of vortices and vortex lattices produced by rotation in the cyclic phase of F=2 spinor Bose condensates. In addition to the familiar triangular lattice predicted by Tkachenko for $^4$He, many more complex lattices appear in this system as a result of the spin degree of freedom. In particular, we predict a magnetic-field-driven transition from a triangular lattice to a honeycomb lattice. Other transitions and lattice geometries are driven at constant field by changes in the temperature-dependent ratio of charge and spin stiffnesses, including a transition through an aperiodic vortex structure.