We propose that the pseudogap state observed in the transition metal oxides can be explained by a three-dimensional flux state, which exhibits spontaneously generated currents in its ground state due to electron-electron correlations. We compare the energy of the flux state to other classes of mean field states, and find that it is stabilized over a wide range of t and $\delta .$ The signature of the state will be peaks in the neutron diffraction spectra, the location and intensity of which are presented. The dependence of the pseudogap in the optical conductivity is calculated based on the parameters in the model.

• Received 8 January 2002

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.66.075120