arXiv · 1009.1398
Three-sublattice ordering of the SU(3) Heisenberg model of three-flavor fermions on the square and cubic lattices
Abstract
Combining a semi-classical analysis with exact diagonalizations, we show that the ground state of the SU(3) Heisenberg model on the square lattice develops three-sublattice long-range order. This surprising pattern for a bipartite lattice with only nearest-neighbor interactions is shown to be the consequence of a subtle quantum order-by-disorder mechanism. By contrast, thermal fluctuations favor two-sublattice configurations via entropic selection. These results are shown to extend to the cubic lattice, and experimental implications for the Mott-insulating states of three-flavor fermionic atoms in optical lattices are discussed.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Tamas A. Toth, Andreas M. Laeuchli, Frederic Mila, Karlo Penc. 2010-11-29. Three-sublattice ordering of the SU(3) Heisenberg model of three-flavor fermions on the square and cubic lattices. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.105.265301
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.