Exciting half-integer charges in a quantum point contact

TL;DR

This paper predicts observable features in a quantum point contact current indicating half-integer charge transfers, using a theoretical approach applicable to all coherent conductors.

Contribution

It introduces a theoretical prediction of half-integer charge transfer signatures in QPCs strongly coupled to qubits, expanding understanding of charge transport phenomena.

Findings

Observable features in QPC current linked to half-integer charges

Theoretical framework applicable to all coherent conductors

Predictions relevant for experimental detection of fractional charges

Abstract

We study a voltage-driven quantum point contact (QPC) strongly coupled to a qubit. We predict pronounced observable features in the QPC current that can be interpreted in terms of half-integer charge transfers. Our analysis is based on the Keldysh generating functional approach and contains general results, valid for all coherent conductors.