Topological Band Systems and Finite Size Effects

The recent discoveries about topological insulators have been promoting theoretical and experimental research. In this dissertation, the basic concepts of topological insulators and the Quantum Hall Effect are reviewed focusing the discussion on edge states and their band structure. Lattice models with pierced magnetism are described and the Hofstadter model is presented for bounded systems with and without an in-site disorder. An overview of the experimental procedure based on cold atoms in optical lattices with synthetic dimensions is given. In order to understand to what extent these small systems of cold atoms mimic the behaviour of a topological insulator, an analysis of some finite size effects is provided and a deduction of the gap opening in the band structure is presented using perturbation theory.
Comment: Master's thesis