Evidence for a nematic component to the Hidden Order parameter in URu2Si2 from differential elastoresistance measurements

Understand

Measurements of the differential elastoresistance of URu$_2$Si$_2$ reveal that the fluctuations associated with the 17 K Hidden Order phase transition have a nematic component.

• Approaching the "Hidden Order" phase transition from above, the nematic susceptibility abruptly changes sign, indicating that while the Hidden Order phase has a nematic component, it breaks additional symmetries.