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Stabilizing an Ultracold Fermi Gas against Fermi Acceleration to Superdiffusion through Localization

S. Barbosa1, M. Kiefer-Emmanouilidis1,2,3, F. Lang1, J. Koch1, and A. Widera1,*

  • *Contact author: widera@rptu.de
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Phys. Rev. Lett. 134, 253402 – Published 24 June, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/rq4w-377l

Abstract

Anderson localization, i.e., destructive quantum interference of multiple-scattering paths, halts transport entirely. Contrarily, time-dependent random forces expedite transport via Fermi acceleration, proposed as a mechanism for high-energy cosmic rays. Their competition creates interesting dynamics, but experimental observations are scarce. Here, we experimentally study the expansion of an ultracold Fermi gas inside time-dependent disorder and observe distinct regimes from sub- to superdiffusion. Unexpectedly, quantum interference counteracts acceleration in strong disorder before a transition to a diffusive state occurs in the driven system. Our system enables the investigation of Fermi acceleration in the quantum-transport regime.

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Phys. Rev. Lett. 134, 253402– Published 24 June, 2025
  • Received 14 May 2024
  • Revised 25 April 2025
  • Accepted 27 May 2025
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