Spin–orbit coupling describes the interaction between a quantum particle's spin and its momentum, and is important for many areas of physics such as spintronics and topological insulators. However, in systems of ultracold neutral atoms, there is no coupling between the spin and the centre of mass motion of the atom. This study uses lasers to engineer such spin–orbit coupling in a neutral atomic Bose–Einstein condensate, the first time this has been achieved for any bosonic system. This should lead to the realization of topological insulators in fermionic neutral atom systems.
- Y.-J. Lin
- K. Jiménez-García
- I. B. Spielman
