Spin and Charge Ordering in the Quantum Hall Regime

The book presents a comprehensive yet concise introduction to the physics of two-dimensional electron systems in the quantum Hall regime, as well as an up-to-date overview of the current fields of research concerning the integer and fractional quantum Hall effect. The physics of two-dimensional electron systems at low temperatures and high magnetic fields are governed by the formation of discrete energy levels referred to as Landau levels. These narrow energy bands not only form the basis of the well-known quantum Hall effect but also promote strong interactions between the electrons, giving rise to some of the finest manifestations of many-body physics in solid state science. Examples include skyrmionic spin textures, ferromagnetic spin transitions, stripe and bubble phases, as well as fractional quantum Hall states with potential non-abelian exchange statistics. 

The thesis succeeds in profoundly deepening our understanding of these exotic states of matter, with a main focus on the density-modulated phases in the quantum Hall regime. These phases arise from the interplay of competing interactions and are characterized by a self-organized ordering of electrons in spatial patterns. Similar phases of matter are currently being studied in other material systems as well, most notably in high-temperature superconductors. The thesis stands out not only in terms of its contribution to improving readers’ grasp of physics, but also in the diversity and novelty of the measurement techniques employed, which take advantage of the interaction between the electrons and the surrounding crystal lattice.