Hong-Ou-Mandel characterization of multiply charged Levitons

TL;DR

This paper explores the use of Hong-Ou-Mandel experiments to characterize multiply charged Levitons in topological quantum states, revealing their unique quantum interference features through noise measurements.

Contribution

It develops a theoretical framework for analyzing collision experiments of multiply charged Levitons, combining noise formalism and wave-packet overlap perspectives.

Findings

Leviton charge states can be distinguished via noise correlations.

Multiply charged Levitons exhibit unique interference patterns.

Theoretical models match expected experimental outcomes.

Abstract

We review and develop recent results regarding Leviton excitations generated in topological states of matter - such as integer and fractional quantum Hall edge channels - and carrying a charge multiple of the electronic one. The peculiar features associated to these clean and robust emerging excitations can be detected through current correlation measurements. In particular, relevant information can be extracted from the noise signal in generalized Hong-Ou-Mandel experiments, where Levitons with different charges collide against each other at a quantum point contact. We describe this quantity both in the framework of the photo-assisted noise formalism and in terms of a very interesting and transparent picture based on wave-packet overlap.