Quantum metamorphism

TL;DR

This paper introduces a model for quantum metamorphism between two distinct discrete time crystals, demonstrating how one can transition into another through controlled Hamiltonian modulation, with potential experimental realization.

Contribution

It proposes a theoretical model for quantum metamorphism between different discrete time crystals and suggests an experimental protocol for observation.

Findings

Demonstrates a transition from 4T- to 2T-DTC via Hamiltonian modulation

Analyzes the process within many-body physics of driven systems

Proposes an experimental protocol using current quantum technology

Abstract

Crystals form regular and robust structures that under extreme conditions can melt and recrystallize into different arrangements in a process that is called crystal metamorphism. While crystals exist due to the breaking of a continuous translation symmetry in space, it has recently been proposed that discrete crystalline order can also emerge in time and give raise to a novel phase of matter named discrete time crystal (DTC). In this paper, we join these two ideas and propose a model for quantum metamorphism between two DTCs of different periodicity, a 2T and 4T-DTC. In our model the conditions for metamorphism come from the modulation of perturbative terms in the 4T-DTC Hamiltonian that gradually melt its structure and transform it into a 2T-DTC. This process is studied in detail from the viewpoint of manybody physics of periodically driven systems. We also propose a protocol to experimentally observe quantum metamorphism using current quantum technology.