Helical Aharonov-Casher edge states

TL;DR

This paper predicts the emergence of helical edge states induced by the Aharonov-Casher vector potential in two-dimensional systems, analogous to quantum Hall edge states, with potential implications for material systems.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of helical edge states arising from the Aharonov-Casher vector potential in 2D geometries, expanding understanding of topological edge phenomena.

Findings

Helical edge states can form due to Aharonov-Casher vector potential.

Edge states appear in narrow channels with symmetric confinement.

Implications for experimental realization in specific materials.

Abstract

It is shown that an Aharonov-Casher vector potential in a two-dimensional geometry can lead to helical edge states. The Aharonov-Casher vector potential is the electromagnetic dual of the magnetic vector potential, and leads to traveling states at the sample edge in analogy to the integer quantum Hall effect. The helical edge states are predicted to appear in a narrow channel geometry with parabolic or sufficiently symmetric confinement potential. The implications of the helical Aharonov-Casher edge states and experimental considerations in specific materials systems are discussed.