Search arXivSearch

arXiv · 1606.07058

The quantum 1/2 BPS Wilson loop in ${\cal N}=4$ Chern-Simons-matter theories

Abstract

In three dimensional ${\cal N}=4$ Chern-Simons-matter theories two independent fermionic Wilson loop operators can be defined, which preserve half of the supersymmetry charges and are cohomologically equivalent at classical level. We compute their three-loop expectation value in a convenient color sector and prove that the degeneracy is uplifted by quantum corrections. We expand the matrix model prediction in the same regime and by comparison we conclude that the quantum 1/2 BPS Wilson loop is the average of the two operators. We provide an all-loop argument to support this claim at any order. As a by-product, we identify the localization result at three loops as a correction to the framing factor induced by matter interactions. Finally, we comment on the quantum properties of the non-1/2 BPS Wilson loop operator defined as the difference of the two fermionic ones.

Explore related subjects

Keep this discovery

Explore connections, maps & timelines

BibTeXRIS

Marco S. Bianchi, Luca Griguolo, Matias Leoni, Andrea Mauri, Silvia Penati, Domenico Seminara. 2016-06-22. The quantum 1/2 BPS Wilson loop in ${\cal N}=4$ Chern-Simons-matter theories. https://doi.org/10.1007/jhep09(2016)009

Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.

KEEP EXPLORING

Related papers

Introduction to Generalized Symmetries

These notes were prepared for a series of intensive lectures delivered at Hokkaido University, Nagoya University, Kyoto University, and Kyushu University. We begin with a brief review of higher-form symmetries, anomalies, and discrete gauge theories, before introducing non-invertible symmetries in $(1+1)$-dimensional systems. The basic structure of fusion categories is then discussed, including a discussion of categorical analogs of discrete gauging and representation theory. We subsequently turn to $(3+1)$-dimensional theories, where several physical applications of non-invertible symmetries are discussed. These notes are intended to be largely self-contained, and require no prior familiarity with subjects such as conformal field theory or lattice models.

hep-th

Planar loop integrands from cuts in $D$ dimensions

We present a direct reconstruction formula for planar loop integrands from $D$-dimensional generalized unitarity cuts in any colored theory. The reconstruction combinatorics is separated from the theory-dependent tree amplitudes entering the cuts: for the $L$-loop $n$-point color-ordered amplitude, the integrand is expressed as a sum over admissible non-scaleless scalar graphs dressed by corresponding cuts in $D$ dimensions; the coefficients are given by the universal Möbius-inversion formula of the refinement poset, or equivalently one minus the Euler characteristics of associated complexes. As an application we write down closed-formulas for loop integrands in pure Yang--Mills theory, where the required cuts are generated by gluing $D$-dimensional tree amplitudes and summing over internal gluon states. We also use the two-loop five-point case as a validation, comparing with known integrand data and after integration-by-parts reduction, with known integrated helicity amplitudes. The same framework also produces compact cut-organized data for larger examples, including the two-loop six-point and three-loop four-point cases. We also describe the corresponding simplification in maximally supersymmetric Yang--Mills theory, where the absence of bubble and triangle subgraphs reduces the relevant cut poset substantially.

hep-th

Free Field Realization of $\mathcal{W}$-Algebra Associated with Exceptional Lie Algebras

We study the free field realization of the $\mathcal{W}$-algebra associated with the exceptional Lie algebras $E_6$, $E_7$, $E_8$, and $F_4$. We develop a recursive construction in which a $\mathcal{W}$-algebra of rank $r$ is obtained from a $\mathcal{W}$-algebra of rank $r-1$ together with a free boson. The $\mathcal{W}$-currents are constructed from the zero commutation relation with the screening charges. The $\mathcal{W}E_6/\mathcal{W}E_7$ algebra is constructed from the $\mathcal{W}D_5/\mathcal{W}D_6$ algebra and is shown to be the same as that realized from the $\mathcal{W}A_5/\mathcal{W}E_6$ algebra, up to a change of the free field basis. The spin-$8$ generator of the $\mathcal{W}E_8$ algebra is built from the $\mathcal{W}D_7$ algebra. The recursive construction of the $\mathcal{W}BC_r$ algebras is also studied. We then realize the $\mathcal{W}F_4$ algebra based on the $\mathcal{W}BC_3$ algebra. Furthermore, the $\mathcal{W}$-charges of the generators of the $\mathcal{W}E_{6,7}$, $\mathcal{W}BC_{2,3}$, and $\mathcal{W}F_4$ algebras are calculated and expressed in terms of the Casimir invariants.

hep-th