Background In late 2024, researchers from Penn State and Columbia University discovered semi-Dirac fermions in the topological metal ZrSiS. These unique particles exhibit mass only when moving in one direction and are massless in the perpendicular direction. The discovery was verified through magneto-optical spectroscopy and ab initio calculations at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Florida.

Resolution Criteria This market will resolve YES if by December 31, 2025:

• A research team independent from the original Penn State/Columbia University researchers publishes peer-reviewed findings confirming the existence of semi-Dirac fermions in ZrSiS

• The replication must be published in a recognized scientific journal or preprint server (e.g., arXiv)

The market will resolve NO if:

• No independent replication is published by December 31, 2025

• Published attempts to replicate fail to confirm the original findings

• The original findings are withdrawn or significantly revised

Considerations

• Replication requires access to specialized equipment, including high-powered magnetic fields

• The complexity of the experiments and theoretical analysis may impact the timeline for replication

• There are still unexplained aspects of the original data, which could affect replication efforts

• The novelty and potential impact on quantum technology may motivate other research teams to prioritize replication attempts