Implications of second harmonic generation for hidden order in Sr$_2$CuO$_2$Cl$_2$


Abstract in English

Sr$_2$CuO$_2$Cl$_2$ (SCOC) is a model undoped cuprate with $I4/mmm$ crystallographic symmetry, and a simple magnetic space group $C_Amca$ with associated magnetic point group $mmm1$. However, recent second harmonic spectroscopy in the antiferromagnetic phase has challenged this picture, suggesting instead a magnetic point group $4/mmm$ that co-exists with the antiferromagnetism and breaks the two orthogonal mirror planes containing the tetragonal $c$-axis. Here, we analyze the symmetry of SCOC in light of the second harmonic results, and discuss possible ground states that are consistent with the data.

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