Finite Layer Thickness Stabilizes the Pfaffian State for the 5/2 Fractional Quantum Hall Effect: Wavefunction Overlap and Topological Degeneracy

TL;DR

This study demonstrates that finite layer thickness in quasi-two-dimensional systems stabilizes the Moore-Read Pfaffian state at filling factor 5/2, supported by exact calculations of wavefunction overlap and topological degeneracy.

Contribution

It provides the first detailed analysis showing how finite layer thickness stabilizes the Pfaffian state in fractional quantum Hall systems.

Findings

Finite layer thickness enhances the stability of the Pfaffian state.

Wavefunction overlap with the Pfaffian state increases with layer thickness.

Ground state degeneracy consistent with topological order is observed.

Abstract

We find the finite-width, i.e., the layer thickness, of experimental quasi-two dimensional systems produces a physical environment sufficient to stabilize the Moore-Read Pfaffian state thought to describe the fractional quantum Hall effect at filling factor $\nu=5/2$. This conclusion is based on exact calculations performed in the spherical and torus geometries, studying wavefunction overlap and ground state degeneracy