Speaker: Alexander Glaetzle, University of Innsbruck
Abstract: We will present a discussion of quantum spin ice, which represents a paradigmatic example on how the physics of frustrated magnets is related to gauge theories. The goal is to assemble a system of cold Rydberg atoms and to design interactions that realize a toy model of quantum spin ice on a two-dimensional checkerboard lattice. In particular, we exploit the strong angular dependence of Van-der-Waals interactions between high angular momentum Rydberg states. Together with the possibility of designing step-like potentials using ground state atoms weakly dressed by Rydberg states, we can implement Abelian gauge theories in a series of geometries, which could be demonstrated within state of the art experiments.