A Quantum Quasicrystal

A quasicrystal has an ordered atomic arrangement that never repeats itself. This anomalous structure results in unusual material properties, such as high mechanical strength and poor electrical conduction. But so far, quasicrystalline behavior has not been observed in a quantum system, where the atomic wave functions have a coherent relationship. A group of theorists—writing in Physical Review Letters—explore the possibility of a quantum quasicrystal made from ultracold atoms. Such a system, which is presumably within reach of current experimental techniques, should exhibit excitations not seen in classical quasicrystals.