Possible observation of phase coexistence of the $\nu =1/3$ fractional quantum Hall liquid and a solid

Abstract

We have measured the magnetoresistance of a very low density and an extremely high quality two-dimensional hole system. With increasing magnetic field applied perpendicularly to the sample we observe the sequence of insulating, $\nu =1/3$ fractional quantum Hall liquid, and insulating phases. In both of the insulating phases in the vicinity of the $\nu =1/3$ filling the magnetoresistance has an unexpected oscillatory behavior with the magnetic field. These oscillations are not of the Shubnikov-de Haas type and cannot be explained by spin effects. They are most likely the consequence of the formation of a new electronic phase which is intermediate between the correlated Hall liquid and a disorder pinned solid.

5 pages, 4 figures