Patterning by dynamically unstable spin–orbit-coupled Bose–Einstein condensates

Abstract

In a two-dimensional atomic Bose–Einstein condensate, we demonstrate Rashba spin–orbit coupling can always introduce dynamical instability into specific zero-quasimomentum states in all parameter regimes. During the evolution of the zero-quasimomentum states, such spin–orbit-coupling-induced instability can fragment the states and lead to a dynamically patterning process. The features of formed patterns are identified from the symmetries of the Bogoliubov–de Gennes Hamiltonian. We show that spin–orbit-coupled Bose–Einstein condensates provide an interesting platform for the investigation of pattern formations.