A new experiment pushes the boundaries of our understanding of topological quantum matter

New research conducted by Princeton University physicists is delving with high resolution into the complex and fascinating world of topological quantum matter—a branch of physics that studies the inherent quantum properties of materials that can be deformed but not intrinsically changed. By repeating an experiment first conducted by researchers at Kyoto University, the Princeton team has clarified key aspects of the original experiment, and importantly, reached novel and divergent conclusions—conclusions that advance our understanding of topological matter.