From Branched Flow to Superwires in Periodic Potentials

TL;DR

This paper explores novel classical and quantum wave behaviors in high Brillouin zones of periodic potentials, revealing stable branched flow and the emergence of superwires as dynamical channels beyond traditional confinement.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of superwires formed by stable dynamical channels in periodic potentials, expanding understanding of wave propagation in high Brillouin zones.

Findings

Branched flow occurs at wavelengths shorter than the periodic structure.

Strong branches remain stable indefinitely, forming superwires.

Superwires act as dynamical channels not confined by potential walls.

Abstract

We report unexpected classical and quantum dynamics of a wave propagating in a periodic potential in high Brilloiun zones. Branched flow appears at wavelengths shorter than the typical length scale of the ordered periodic structure and for energies above the potential barrier. The strongest branches remain stable indefinitely and may create linear dynamical channels, wherein waves are not confined directly by potential walls as electrons in ordinary wires, but rather indirectly and more subtly by dynamical stability. We term these superwires, since they are associated with a superlattice.