Anderson localization

noun

An·​der·​son localization ˈan-dər-sən- 

physics

: the tendency of electrons to prefer certain pathways through an impure conductor due to quantum mechanical properties

It is an amusing paradox that this ideal behavior occurs only in imperfect samples. That's because disorder produces Anderson localization of quasiparticles, preventing them from contributing to the transport properties.

—Steven M. Girvin, Physics Today, June 2000

Word History

Etymology

after Philip Warren Anderson *1923 U.S. physicist

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

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