Anomalies in the space of coupling constants and their dynamical applications II

• DOI: 10.21468/scipostphys.8.1.002
• Publication Date: 2020-01-07T02:01:24Z
• Authors: Clay Cordova; Daniel Freed; Ho Tat Lam; Nathan Seiberg
• Keywords: Coupling constant

We extend our earlier work on anomalies in the space of coupling constants to four-dimensional gauge theories. Pure Yang-Mills theory (without matter) with a simple and simply connected group has mixed anomaly between its one-form global symmetry (associated center) periodicity $\theta$-parameter. This is at root many recently discovered properties these theories, including their phase transitions interfaces. These new can be used this understanding systems without discrete symmetries (such as time-reversal). also study $SU(N)$ $Sp(N)$ theories matter fundamental representation. Here we find flavor $\theta$-periodicity. Again, unifies distinct recently-discovered phenomena controls dynamics