The Power of Quantum Oscillations

Quantum oscillations, also known as Shubnikov–de Haas oscillations or de Haas–van Alphen oscillations, are a phenomenon in condensed matter physics in which the electrical resistance or magnetic susceptibility of a material exhibits periodic oscillations as a function of an external magnetic field. These oscillations are caused by the quantization of energy levels of electrons in a magnetic field, which leads to a periodic variation in the number of electrons that can occupy the Fermi surface.

The frequency of the quantum oscillations is determined by the size and shape of the Fermi surface, which is a fundamental property of a material that describes the allowed energy states for electrons. By measuring the frequency of the quantum oscillations, it is possible to map out the Fermi surface of a material, which can provide important information about its electronic properties.

Quantum oscillations have been used to study a wide variety of materials, including metals, semiconductors, and superconductors. They have also been used to study the effects of pressure, temperature, and doping on the electronic properties of materials.

Here are some of the applications of quantum oscillations:

Mapping the Fermi surface: Quantum oscillations can be used to map out the Fermi surface of a material, which is a fundamental property of a material that describes the allowed energy states for electrons. The Fermi surface is important because it determines the electrical and magnetic properties of a material.
* **Studying the effects of pressure, temperature, and doping:** Quantum oscillations can be used to study the effects of pressure, temperature, and doping on the electronic properties of materials. This information can be used to understand the behavior of materials under different conditions and to design new materials with desired properties.
Detecting new states of matter: Quantum oscillations can be used to detect new states of matter, such as superconductors and topological insulators. These states of matter have unique properties that could be used for new applications.

Quantum oscillations are a powerful tool for studying the electronic properties of materials. They have been used to make important discoveries about the behavior of materials and to design new materials with desired properties.