T/B Scaling in beta-YbAlB4

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical framework explaining the T/B scaling observed in beta-YbAlB4, linking it to quantum criticality of Yb-valence fluctuations near a valence transition.

Contribution

It introduces a new theoretical model that accounts for the T/B scaling behavior through quantum valence criticality in beta-YbAlB4.

Findings

T/B scaling arises near the quantum critical point of Yb-valence transition.

The model explains the small energy scale of critical Yb-valence fluctuations.

Unified explanation for unconventional quantum criticality in beta-YbAlB4.

Abstract

The scaling behavior over four decades of the ratio of temperature T to magnetic field B observed in the magnetization in beta-YbAlB4 is theoretically examined. By developing a theoretical framework that exhibits the quantum critical phenomena of Yb-valence fluctuations under a magnetic field, we show that the T/B-scaling behavior can appear near the quantum critical point of the valence transition. The emergence of the T/B scaling indicates the presence of the small characteristic energy scale of critical Yb-valence fluctuations. It is argued that the quantum valence criticality offers a unified explanation for the unconventional quantum criticality as well as the T/B scaling in beta-YbAlB4.