Topological Interface between Pfaffian and Anti-Pfaffian Order in ν=5/2 Quantum Hall Effect.

Abstract

A recent thermal Hall experiment triggered renewed interest in the problem of ν=5/2 quantum Hall effect, which motivated novel interpretations based on the formation of mesoscopic puddles made of Pfaffian and anti-Pfaffian topological orders. Here, we study an interface between the Pfaffian and anti-Pfaffian states, which may play crucial roles in thermal transport, by means of state-of-the-art, density-matrix renormalization group simulations. We demonstrate that an intrinsic electric dipole moment emerges at the interface, similar to the "p-n" junction sandwiched between N-type and P-type semiconductor. Importantly, we elucidate the topological origin of this dipole moment, whose formation is to counterbalance the mismatch of guiding-center Hall viscosity of bulk Pfaffian and anti-Pfaffian states. In addition, these results imply that the formation of a dipole moment could be helpful to stabilize the puddles made of Pfaffian and anti-Pfaffian states in experimental conditions.