Abstract: Geometry, topology and broken symmetry play a powerful role in determining the physics of materials. In this colloquium I will present experimental realizations of activated materials and fluids built out of mechanically spinning components and show how the subtle interplay of structure, time-reversal and parity leads to `odd' solid and fluid mechanics. The self-assembled chiral phases we observe blur the boundary between solids and fluids spontaneously exhibiting novel phenomena both fluid and solid: from chiral surface waves to odd instabilities and motile topological defects. The simple addition of transverse interactions through rotational drive in the 'atomic' constituents proves to be a powerful twist: spontaneously endowing these materials with their active dynamics and exotic responses such as odd viscosity and odd elasticity.
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Coffee, tea and cookies will be available in G1B31 (across from G1B20) from 3:30 - 3:50 p.m.
Physics Colloquia are held Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. in the JILA Auditorium.