Effective response theory for zero-energy Majorana bound states in three spatial dimensions

Pedro L.E.S. Lopes, Jeffrey C.Y. Teo, Shinsei Ryu

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

We propose a gravitational response theory for point defects (hedgehogs) binding Majorana zero modes in (3+1)-dimensional superconductors. Starting in 4+1 dimensions, where the point defect is extended into a line, a coupling of the bulk defect texture with the gravitational field is introduced. Diffeomorphism invariance then leads to an SU(2)2 Kac-Moody current running along the defect line. The SU(2)2 Kac-Moody algebra accounts for the non-Abelian nature of the zero modes in 3+1 dimensions. It is then shown to also encode the angular momentum density which permeates throughout the bulk between hedgehog-antihedgehog pairs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number184111
JournalPhysical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Volume91
Issue number18
DOIs
StatePublished - May 26 2015
Externally publishedYes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics

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