Non-classical rotational inertia in the supersolid state

TL;DR

This paper explains the non-classical rotational inertia observed in solid helium-4 as a macroscopic effect of zero-point vacancies influenced by Bose statistics, challenging the necessity of Bose-Einstein condensation for such phenomena.

Contribution

It introduces a theoretical framework where zero-point vacancies cause non-classical inertia without requiring Bose-Einstein condensation in 3D solids.

Findings

Zero-point vacancies decouple from container motion due to Bose statistics.

The phenomenon occurs without the need for Bose-Einstein condensation.

The model explains the observed drop in moment of inertia in solid helium-4.

Abstract

An abrupt drop in the moment of inertia recently found in solid helium 4 is explained in terms of dynamics of zero-point vacancies (ZPV). Mechanical decoupling of ZPV from the motion of the container due to Bose statistics is developed to a macroscopic phenomenon by repulsive interaction. It gives a negative answer to the question whether BEC is a necessary condition for non-classical rotational inertia in a bulk three-dimensional system.