Reconsidering the interpretation of quantum oscillation experiments on underdoped YBa(2)Cu(3)O(6+x)

TL;DR

This paper challenges the common interpretation of quantum oscillation experiments in underdoped YBa2Cu3O6+x, emphasizing the need to consider alternative electronic states and the robustness of the antinodal gap.

Contribution

It provides a counterexample linking electron-like transport to Fermi-arc states and highlights the stability of the antinodal gap under magnetic fields.

Findings

Electron-like transport can be associated with Fermi-arc states.

The antinodal gap remains robust under modest magnetic fields.

Negative transport coefficients may not uniquely indicate antinodal electron pockets.

Abstract

On the basis of negative transport coefficients, it has been argued that the quantum oscillations observed in underdoped YBa(2)Cu(3)O(6+x) in high magnetic fields must be due to antinodal electron pockets. We point out a counter example in which electron-like transport in a hole-doped cuprate is associated with Fermi-arc states. We also present evidence that the antinodal gap in YBa(2)Cu(3)O(6+x) is robust to modest applied magnetic fields. We suggest that these observations should be taken into account when interpreting the results of the quantum oscillation experiments.