In general quantum field theories (QFTs), ordinary (0-form) global symmetries and 1-form symmetries can combine into 2-group global symmetries. We describe this phenomenon in detail using the language of symmetry defects. We exhibit a simple procedure to determine the (possible) 2-group global symmetry of a given QFT, and provide a classification of the related ’t Hooft anomalies (for symmetries not acting on spacetime). We also describe how QFTs can be coupled to extrinsic backgrounds for symmetry groups that differ from the intrinsic symmetry acting faithfully on the theory. Finally, we provide a variety of examples, ranging from TQFTs (gapped systems) to gapless QFTs. Along the way, we stress that the “obstruction to symmetry fractionalization” discussed in some condensed matter literature is really an instance of 2-group global symmetry.

On 2-group global symmetries and their anomalies / Benini, F.; Cordova, C.; Hsin, P. -S.. - In: JOURNAL OF HIGH ENERGY PHYSICS. - ISSN 1029-8479. - 2019:3(2019), pp. 1-70. [10.1007/JHEP03(2019)118]

On 2-group global symmetries and their anomalies

Benini F.
;
2019-01-01

Abstract

In general quantum field theories (QFTs), ordinary (0-form) global symmetries and 1-form symmetries can combine into 2-group global symmetries. We describe this phenomenon in detail using the language of symmetry defects. We exhibit a simple procedure to determine the (possible) 2-group global symmetry of a given QFT, and provide a classification of the related ’t Hooft anomalies (for symmetries not acting on spacetime). We also describe how QFTs can be coupled to extrinsic backgrounds for symmetry groups that differ from the intrinsic symmetry acting faithfully on the theory. Finally, we provide a variety of examples, ranging from TQFTs (gapped systems) to gapless QFTs. Along the way, we stress that the “obstruction to symmetry fractionalization” discussed in some condensed matter literature is really an instance of 2-group global symmetry.
2019
2019
3
1
70
118
10.1007/JHEP03(2019)118
https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP03(2019)118
Benini, F.; Cordova, C.; Hsin, P. -S.
File in questo prodotto:
File Dimensione Formato  
Benini2019_Article_On2-groupGlobalSymmetriesAndTh.pdf

accesso aperto

Descrizione: Open Access article
Tipologia: Versione Editoriale (PDF)
Licenza: Creative commons
Dimensione 1.04 MB
Formato Adobe PDF
1.04 MB Adobe PDF Visualizza/Apri

I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.

Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11767/95576
Citazioni
  • ???jsp.display-item.citation.pmc??? ND
  • Scopus 135
  • ???jsp.display-item.citation.isi??? 131
social impact