topological phase transition

A topological phase transition is a change in a material's fundamental electronic properties that involves how its electrons are arranged and behave, rather than a simple change in temperature or state. Think of it like transforming a shape from a doughnut (with a hole) to a sphere (without a hole) without tearing or cutting; the overall structure changes in a way that affects how electrons move along edges or surfaces. These transitions can lead to new states of matter with unique electrical behaviors, important for advanced technologies like quantum computing. They are characterized by a shift in the material's topological order.