Probing an Unexpected Symmetry

The video tutorial discusses the unexpected discovery of icosahedral symmetry in computer simulations of amorphous metals, challenging established solid-state physics wisdom. Initially, the focus was on cubactic order, but the simulations revealed icosahedral order, a symmetry previously thought impossible in solids. The tutorial explores the implications of this discovery and the potential for extending icosahedral order using multiple atom types, despite it being a forbidden symmetry in traditional solid-state physics.

What challenges did the researcher face when trying to simulate amorphous metals with multiple types of atoms?

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Explain the significance of the findings related to icosahedral order in solid-state physics.

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