Distinguishing a Majorana zero mode using spin-resolved measurements

Abstract

Topological or trivial? Evidence for Majorana bound states (MBS), which are expected to provide a platform for topological quantum computing, has been found in several material systems. Typically, the experimental signature is a peak in the spectrum at zero energy, but mechanisms other than MBS need to be carefully ruled out. Using spin-polarized scanning tunneling spectroscopy, Jeon et al. studied chains of iron atoms deposited on superconducting lead and found a more distinctive signature of the topological states. Unlike trivial zero-energy states, MBS exhibited a characteristic spin-polarization signal. Science , this issue p. 772