Quantum Field Theory of Topological Defects as Inhomogeneous Condensates
Abstract
Description
In the framework of the Closed-Time-Path formalism, we show how topological defects may arise in Quantum Field Theory as result of a localized (inhomogeneous) condensation of particles. We demonstrate our approach on two examples; kinks in the $2D λψ^{4}$ theory (both at zero and finite temperature) and vortices in the complex $4D λψ^{4} $ theory.
10 pages, 1 figure. To appear in the Proceedings of the 37th International School of Subnuclear Physics, Erice, 29 Aug. - 7 Sep. 1999
10 pages, 1 figure. To appear in the Proceedings of the 37th International School of Subnuclear Physics, Erice, 29 Aug. - 7 Sep. 1999