Scientists Propose Theoretical 'Time Liquid' Matter State

Scientists have proposed a theoretical new state of matter dubbed 'time liquids,' which, unlike familiar solids, liquids, and gases, would flow through time rather than space. Researchers from the Max Planck Society suggest these substances could imperfectly repeat patterns over time, analogous to how atoms in a conventional liquid maintain a loose spatial arrangement.

While not yet observed, mathematical models indicate that time liquids could exist under specific conditions. This theoretical state shares similarities with 'time crystals,' a peculiar matter state first created in a lab in 2016. However, time liquids might be more stable, potentially existing in thermal equilibrium, which could allow them to form under a wider range of circumstances and might even be achievable in laboratory settings.

Time crystals are described as having predictable, repeating patterns that extend in both space and time, vibrating or 'ticking' at constant frequencies. They are essentially crystallized in four dimensions. In experimental settings, scientists have created time crystals that exhibit repeating patterns when exposed to light. Despite their fragility, time crystals are theoretically capable of continuous pattern repetition.

A time liquid can be conceptualized as a 'melted' time crystal. Just as liquid water results from the breakdown of a solid ice crystal's structure, a time liquid would lose the long-term coherence of a time crystal but retain a form of short-range temporal order. The discovery or creation of time liquids could offer new avenues for understanding how matter responds to its environment and how order can emerge from apparent chaos.

Creating a time liquid, according to the researchers' preprint paper on arXiv, would involve a complex setup described as a 'two-dimensional spin system coupled to a finite-temperature cavity.' This can be visualized as a flat arrangement of tiny magnetic needles within a hollow chamber containing a magnetic field. As the chamber heats up, random thermal fluctuations would generate an electromagnetic field, causing the needles to spin and interact with their neighbors. This interaction, within a resonant cavity, could produce an approximate rhythm.

The mathematical modeling suggests that under certain conditions, these spinning needles would maintain an overall rhythm but occasionally deviate, skipping between two versions of their repeating patterns. These disruptions would break long-range coherence without eliminating the underlying rhythm, akin to how atoms in water retain some local structure after a crystal melts.

Although currently theoretical, the possibility of creating time liquids is bolstered by the history of time crystals. Initially proposed in 2012 and considered unachievable by many, time crystals have since been created in labs and are even finding practical applications. This precedent suggests that a similar trajectory may await the concept of time liquids.