Why electrical polarization can be expressed as Berry phase?

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Thread starter haw
Start date Sep 19, 2017
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Berry phase Electrical Phase Polarization

In summary, electrical polarization can be expressed as Berry phase because it is a topological property of the quantum wave function. This means that the polarization of a material can be described by a geometric phase factor, known as the Berry phase, which captures the global behavior of the wave function. This allows for a more complete understanding of the underlying physics behind electrical polarization and can also be used to explain certain phenomena, such as the quantum Hall effect. Additionally, the Berry phase provides a way to connect the macroscopic properties of a material to its microscopic quantum behavior.

Sep 19, 2017

haw

Could we calculate (linear) electric polarizability from Berry phase?

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Sep 21, 2017

DrDu

Science Advisor

https://arxiv.org/abs/1202.1831

Sep 21, 2017

haw

DrDu said:

https://arxiv.org/abs/1202.1831

Thanks, I will read it.

Related to Why electrical polarization can be expressed as Berry phase?

1. What is electrical polarization?

Electrical polarization is the process of separating positive and negative charges within a material, creating an electric dipole moment. This can occur in both insulating and conducting materials.

2. How is electrical polarization related to Berry phase?

Electrical polarization can be understood in terms of Berry phase, which is a geometric phase that describes the evolution of a quantum state as it undergoes a cyclic change in its parameters. In the context of electrical polarization, Berry phase describes the rotation of the polarization vector as it moves along a closed path in reciprocal space.

3. Why can electrical polarization be expressed as Berry phase?

Electrical polarization and Berry phase are mathematically related through the concept of geometric phase. This means that changes in the polarization of a material can be described in terms of the Berry phase, providing a deeper understanding of the underlying physical processes.

4. How is Berry phase used to study electrical polarization?

Berry phase is a powerful tool for studying electrical polarization as it allows for a quantitative and geometric description of the polarization vector in reciprocal space. By analyzing the Berry phase, scientists can gain insights into the electronic structure and properties of materials.

5. What are the practical applications of understanding the relationship between electrical polarization and Berry phase?

Understanding the relationship between electrical polarization and Berry phase has important implications for materials science and technology. This knowledge can be used to design new materials with specific electrical properties, such as ferroelectric materials used in memory devices, as well as for developing more efficient electronic devices.