In recent years, a phenomenon called the quantum Hall
effect has emerged as a platform for hosting exotic features called
quasiparticles, with properties that could lead to exciting
applications in areas like quantum computing. When a strong
magnetic field is applied to a 2D material or gas, the electrons at
the interface, unlike the ones within the bulk, are free to move
along the edges in what are called edge modes or channels—somewhat
similar to highway lanes. This edge movement, which is the essence
of the quantum Hall effect, can lead to many interesting properties
depending on the material and conditions.