The Berry phase (Berry 1984) is a crucial concept in many quantum mechanical effects, including quantum computing. For example, it modifies the motion of vortices in superconductors and the motion of electrons in nanoscale electronic devices. As a result of wave-particle duality, all particles have wavelike properties, but the Berry phase is a special type of phase that a particle acquires if it is forced to slowly rotate.
The Berry phase has been described as "the phase that launched 1000 scripts," a humorous reference to Helen of Troy, whose face is reputed to have launched 1000 ships into battle.
References
Berry, M. V. "Quantum Phase Factors Accompanying Adiabatic Changes." Proc. Roy. Soc. A 392, 45-57, 1984.
Berry, M. V. "Anticipations of the Geometric Phase." Phys. Today 43, 34-40, Dec. 1990.
