Year: 2009
Type: preprint
Abstract: I discuss a family of statistical-mechanics models in which (some classes of) elements of a finite group $G$ occupy the (directed) edges of a lattice; the product around any plaquette is constrained to be the group identity $e$. Such a model may possess topological order, i.e. its equilibrium ensemble has distinct, symmetry-related thermodynamic components that cannot be distinguished by any local order parameter. In particular, if $G$ is a non-abelian group, the topological order may be non-abelian. Criteria are given for the viability of particular models, in particular for Monte Carlo updates.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Author: Henley, Christopher L.
Institution: Cornell University
Language: English
Subfield: Condensed Matter Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
Award: Navigating Frustration
OpenAlex ID: W2953226460