Explicit expressions for the topological defects of spinor Bose-Einstein condensates

Abstract

In this paper we first derive a general method which enables one to create expressions for vortices and monopoles. By using this method we construct several order-parameters describing the vortices and monopoles of Bose-Einstein condensates with hyperfine spin F=1 and F=2. We concentrate on defects which are topologically stable in the absence of an external magnetic field. In particular we show that in a ferromagnetic condensate there can be a vortex which does not produce any superfluid flow. We also point out that the order-parameter space of the cyclic phase of F=2 condensate consists of two disconnected sets. Finally we examine the effect of an external magnetic field on the vortices of a ferromagnetic F=1 condensate and discuss the experimental preparation of a vortex in this system.

17 pages, partly rewritten to improve clarity, conclusions unchanged