Detection of the phase shift from a single Abrikosov vortex.
We probe a quantum mechanical phase rotation induced by a single Abrikosov vortex in a superconducting lead, using a Josephson junction, made at the edge of the lead, as a phase-sensitive detector. We observe that the vortex induces a Josephson phase shift equal to the polar angle of the vortex within the junction length. When the vortex is close to the junction it induces a π step in the Josephson phase difference, leading to a controllable and reversible switching of the junction into the 0-π state. This in turn results in an unusual Φ(0)/2 quantization of the flux in the junction. The vortex may hence act as a tunable "phase battery" for quantum electronics.
Golod
T
T
Department of Physics, Stockholm University, AlbaNova University Center, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
Rydh
A
A
Krasnov
V M
VM
D004553:Electric Conductivity; D009532:Nickel / Q000737:chemistry; D009556:Niobium / Q000737:chemistry; D010984:Platinum / Q000737:chemistry; D011789:Quantum Theory; D012399:Rotation
D009556:Niobium; D010984:Platinum; D009532:Nickel