Moses Mutua
Research Mentor: Lu Li
Mentor Department: Physics, LSA
Author(s): Moses Mutua, Lu Li, Yuan Zhu
Session: Session 4 (1:00 PM – 1:50 PM)
Presentation Type: Poster 119
Abstract
Condensed matter physics is the study of the macroscopic properties of materials in relation to the collective behavior of particles such as electrons. These quantum material properties are strongly influenced by quantum mechanics, which causes novel behaviors. One of these properties is electrical resistivity in quantum materials. These materials exhibit interesting magnetic and electronic properties through strong electron correlations. Quantum correlated metals and insulators are tested to explore the electrical and thermal Hall effects. Topological insulators display conductivity on their surfaces while remaining insulating in the bulk. Frustrated materials are those with conflicting electron spins, which may lead to spin liquids. Transport measurements are made using a 4-point technique with fixed contacts. Resistance is measured at cryogenic temperatures as low as 1.8 Kelvin. Various properties, such as metal- insulator transitions or superconductivity, can be identified. These experiments have promising implications for superconductor technology, potentially advancing technologies like MRIS and sensing devices.
