Identifying an Environment-Induced Localization Transition from Entropy and Conductance.

ABSTRACT

Environment-induced localization transitions (LT) occur when a small quantum system interacts with a bath of harmonic oscillators. At equilibrium, LTs are accompanied by an entropy change, signaling the loss of coherence. Despite extensive efforts, equilibrium LTs have yet to be observed. Here, we demonstrate that ongoing experiments on double quantum dots that measure entropy using a nearby quantum point contact realize the celebrated spin-boson model and allow to measure the entropy change of its LT. We find a Kosterlitz-Thouless flow diagram, leading to a universal jump in the spin-bath interaction, reflected in a discontinuity in the zero temperature QPC conductance.