Hall anomaly and moving vortex charge in layered superconductors

TL;DR

This paper revisits the magnetotransport theory of layered superconductors, resolving longstanding Hall sign reversal controversies by analyzing vortex charge contributions, which diverge at weak magnetic fields and explain Hall anomalies in various high-temperature superconductors.

Contribution

It introduces a detailed theoretical framework separating vortex core and vortex charge contributions, clarifies the origin of Hall anomalies, and provides a method to extract vortex charge from experimental data.

Findings

Vortex charge diverges logarithmically at weak magnetic fields.

Hall anomalies are consistent with doping-dependent London penetration depths.

Theoretical estimates match Hall data in YBCO, BSCCO, and NCCO.

Abstract

Magnetotransport theory of layered superconductors in the flux flow steady state is revisited. Longstanding controversies concerning observed Hall sign reversals are resolved. The conductivity separates into a Bardeen-Stephen vortex core contribution, and a Hall conductivity due to moving vortex charge. This charge, which is responsible for Hall anomaly, diverges logarithmically at weak magnetic field. Its values can be extracted from magetoresistivity data by extrapolation of vortex core Hall angle from the normal phase. Hall anomalies in YBCO, BSCCO, and NCCO data are consistent with theoretical estimates based on doping dependence of London penetration depths. In the appendices, we derive the Streda formula for the hydrodynamical Hall conductivity, and refute previously assumed relevance of Galilean symmetry to Hall anomalies.