Controlling quantum phases with step-like electric potentials in one-dimensional Hubbard systems
The study investigates how applying an electric field across a one-dimensional Hubbard chain induces three quantum phases: Mott insulator, metallic, and band insulator. The metallic phase is defined by zero charge and spin gaps, where kinetic energy becomes field-dependent and entanglement shows oscillations. This reveals novel control over strongly correlated quantum states using external potentials.