Parity-Time Symmetry via Time-Dependent non-Unitary Gauge Fields


Abstract in English

Parity-Time (PT) symmetric systems have been widely recognized as fundamental building blocks for the development of novel, ultra-sensitive opto-electronic devices. However, arguably one of their major drawbacks is that they rely on non-linear amplification processes that could limit their potential applications, particularly in the quantum realm. In this work, we show both theoretically and experimentally that gain-loss, PT-symmetric systems can be designed by means of linear, time-modulated components. More specifically, by making use of a state-of-the-art, fully reconfigurable electronic platform, we demonstrate that PT-symmetry breaking transitions can be observed by properly modulating the inductance (L) and the capacitance (C) of a single LC circuit. Importantly, the lossless dynamic-variations of the electrical components used in our LC circuits allow us to control the static and periodic (Floquet) regimes of our PT-symmetric system. Our results challenge the conventional wisdom that at least two-oscillator systems are needed for observing PT-symmetric phenomena, and provide a new perspective in the field of synthetic PT symmetry with important implications for sensing, energy transfer and topology.

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