Novel topological phenomena are anticipated for three-dimensional (3D) Dirac electrons. The magnetotransport properties of cubic ${rm Sr_{3}PbO}$ antiperovskite, theoretically proposed to be a 3D massive Dirac electron system, are studied. The measurements of Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations and Hall resistivity indicate the presence of a low density ($sim 1 times 10^{18}$ ${rm cm^{-3}}$) of holes with an extremely small cyclotron mass of 0.01-0.06$m_{e}$. The magnetoresistance $Deltarho_{xx}(B)$ is linear in magnetic field $B$ with the magnitude independent of temperature. These results are fully consistent with the presence of 3D massive Dirac electrons in ${rm Sr_{3}PbO}$. The chemical flexibility of the antiperovskites and our findings in the family member, ${rm Sr_{3}PbO}$, point to their potential as a model system in which to explore exotic topological phases.
Download