Steady-states and response functions of the periodically driven O( N ) scalar field theory
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We investigate the phase diagram of a relativistic, parametrically driven O( N )-symmetric theory coupled to a Markovian thermal bath. Our analysis reveals a rich variety of phases, including both uniform and spatially modulated symmetry-broken states, some of which feature an order parameter oscillating at half the drive frequency. When coupled to a background electromagnetic potential, these phases exhibit a Meissner effect, in the sense that the photon acquires a mass term. However, if the order parameter oscillates around a sufficiently small value, a fraction of an externally applied magnetic field can penetrate the sample in the form of a standing wave. We dub this property a Meissner polariton , that is, a collective mode resulting from the hybridization of light with order parameter oscillations. Furthermore, near the onset of symmetry breaking, strong fluctuations give rise to a superconducting-like response even in the absence of a Meissner effect or of a Meissner polariton. Our results are relevant to experiments on light-induced orders, particularly superconductivity.
Source: Reports on Progress in Physics
Authors: Oriana K Diessel, Subir Sachdev, Pietro M Bonetti
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,680
Funders: National Science Foundation, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Harvard University, Flatiron Health, Deutsche Akademie der Naturforscher Leopoldina - Nationale Akademie der Wissenschaften, Institute for Theoretical Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics, Harvard University, Division of Materials Research
OpenAlex ID: W4416185194