Synthetic versus Dirac monopoles

TL;DR

This paper discusses the differences and similarities between synthetic magnetic monopoles and Dirac monopoles, highlighting potential misconceptions in recent experimental claims and clarifying the conceptual distinctions.

Contribution

It critically examines recent experimental work, clarifies the theoretical differences, and addresses misconceptions about Dirac monopoles versus synthetic monopoles.

Findings

Recent experiments blur the distinction between synthetic and Dirac monopoles.

Claims about Dirac monopoles in some experiments may be misleading.

The paper emphasizes the importance of clear conceptual understanding.

Abstract

In some recent experiments the distinction between synthetic magnetic monopoles and Dirac monopoles has been blurred. A case in point is the work in a letter by Ray {\it et al.} [arXiv:1408.3133] in which a beautiful experiment is reported but claims with regard to Dirac monopoles are misleading.