Defect Formation Through Boson Condensation in Quantum Field Theory
Abstract
Description
Kinks, vortices, monopoles are extended objects, or defects, of quantum origin with topologically non-trivial properties and macroscopic behavior. They are described in Quantum Field Theory in terms of non-homogeneous boson condensation. I will review the related QFT formalism, the spontaneous breakdown of symmetry framework in which the defects appear and discuss finite temperature effects, also in connection with phase transition problematics.
Lectures given at Les-Houches Winter School "Topological Defects and the Non-Equilibrium Dynamics of Symmetry Breaking Phase Transitions", February 16 - 26, 1999
Lectures given at Les-Houches Winter School "Topological Defects and the Non-Equilibrium Dynamics of Symmetry Breaking Phase Transitions", February 16 - 26, 1999