Work

Topological constraints on defect dynamics

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Extended objects (defects) in quantum field theory exhibit rich, nontrivial dynamics describing a variety of physical phenomena. These systems often involve strong coupling at long distances, where the bulk and defects interact, making analytical studies challenging. By carefully analyzing the behavior of bulk symmetries in the presence of defects, we uncover robust topological constraints on defect RG flows. Specifically, we introduce the notions of defect anomalies and symmetry-reflecting defects, both of which are RG-invariant. Several known notions, such as higher-form symmetries, fractionalization, and projective lines, are revealed to be manifestations of defect anomalies, which also encompass novel phenomena and forbid trivial defect dynamics in the infrared. Meanwhile, symmetry-reflecting defects are shown to remain coupled at low energies, imposing powerful dynamical constraints. We verify our findings through concrete examples: exactly solvable defect RG flows in ( 1 + 1 ) d conformal field theories with symmetry-reflecting lines and a surface defect in ( 2 + 1 ) d scalar QED.

Source: Physical review. D/Physical review. D.

DOI: 10.1103/physrevd.111.065025

Authors: Andrea Antinucci, Christian Copetti, Giovanni Galati, Giovanni Rizi

Institutions: University of Oxford, Université Libre de Bruxelles, International Solvay Institutes, Institut des Hautes Études Scientifiques

Language: English

Topic: Black Holes and Theoretical Physics

Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: UK Research and Innovation, Science and Technology Facilities Council, European Research Council

Awards: Theoretical Studies of Particles and Strings, G4198974254