First Direct Visualization of a Zero-Field Pair Density Wave
In this illustration of the superconducting material Eu-1144, the blue and magenta wave shown above the crystal lattice represents how the energy level of the electron pairs (yellow spheres) spatially modulates as these electrons move through the crystal. Credit: Brookhaven National LaboratoryTunneling spectroscopy uncovers the clearest proof yet that this exotic superconducting state of matter exists without a magnetic field in an iron-based superconductor.Researchers discovered an alternate superconducting state, called…