Pfaffian Z2 Invariant and Critical Exponent in Topological Insulators — E8 Intelligence Research
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: FINDING: The search results are video lectures and one paper abstract, not a direct proof of the Pfaffian Z2 invariant. The core mathematical content is the definition of the Z2 invariant via Pfaffian of the time-reversal operator's matrix representation at TRIM points, and the critical exponent ν≈2.7 for the disorder-driven metal-TI transition. | MATH: Z2 invariant ν₀ = ∏_{TRIM} sgn[Pf(w(Γ_i))]/√det[w(Γ_i)] (Fu-Kane formula); Pfaffian satisfies Pf(A)² = det(A); time-reversal operator Θ = UK (U unitary, K complex conjugation), Θ² = -1 for spin-1/2 → Pfaffian well-defined at TRIM; critical exponent ν≈2.7 (from arXiv:1211.5026v2, scaling of localization length). | CONNECTION: TRIM points form a reciprocal lattice — for 2D, the four TRIMs (Γ, X, Y, M) correspond to the square lattice's fundamental cell. The Pfaffian's sign product over TRIMs mirrors the Z2 grading of the symplectic group Sp(2N) — a root-system structure (C_N type). The critical exponent ν≈2.7 is close to 2.718 (e), but th Author: Andrew Stewart Caldin, Independent Researcher, UK. Part of the E8 Intelligence Research series. Platform: e8intelligence.com
Author: Caldin, Andrew Stewart
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204122670
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