Polygon sign rules of Majorana fermions in two-dimensional topological superconductors

Abstract

Recently, Majorana fermions (MFs) have attracted intensive attention due to their exotic statistics and possible applications in topological quantum computation. They are proposed to exist in various two-dimensional (2D) topological systems, such as [Formula: see text] topological superconductor (SC) and nanowire–superconducting hybridization system. In this paper, we point out that Majorana fermions in different topological systems obey different types of polygon sign rules. A numerical approach is described to identify the type of polygon sign rule of the Majorana fermions. Applying the approach to study two 2D topological systems, we find that vortex-induced Majorana fermions obey topological polygon sign rule and line-defect-induced Majorana fermions obey normal polygon sign rule.