Electrons that flow like a fluid

Abstract

Electron Transport![Figure][1] Artistic rendering of Dirac fluid experimentally observed in graphene CREDIT: SECOND BAY STUDIOS Electrons inside a conductor are often described as flowing in response to an electric field. This flow rarely resembles anything like the familiar flow of water through a pipe, but three groups describe counterexamples (see the Perspective by Zaanen). Moll et al. found that the viscosity of the electron fluid in thin wires of PdCoO2 had a major effect on the flow, much like what happens in regular fluids. Bandurin et al. found evidence in graphene of electron whirlpools similar to those formed by viscous fluid flowing through a small opening. Finally, Crossno et al. observed a huge increase of thermal transport in graphene, a signature of so-called Dirac fluids. Science , this issue p. [1061][2], [1055][3], [1058][4]; see also p. [1026][5] [1]: pending:yes [2]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.aac8385 [3]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.aad0201 [4]: /lookup/volpage/351/1058?iss=6277 [5]: /lookup/volpage/351/1026?iss=6277