[Seminar] Prof. Andreas Läuchli "Diagnosing weakly first-order phase transitions by coupling to order parameters"

Speaker

Prof. Andreas Läuchli
Paul Scherrer Institute / EPFL 

Title

Diagnosing weakly first-order phase transitions by coupling to order parameters

Abstract

The hunt for exotic quantum phase transitions described by emergent fractionalized degrees of freedom coupled to gauge fields requires a precise determination of the fixed point structure from the field theoretical side, and an extreme sensitivity to weak first-order transitions from the numerical side. Addressing the latter, we revive the classic definition of the order parameter in the limit of a vanishing external field at the transition. We demonstrate that this widely understood, yet so far unused approach provides a diagnostic test for first-order versus continuous behavior that is distinctly more sensitive than current methods. We first apply it to the family of Q-state Potts models, where the nature of the transition is continuous for Q≤4 and turns (weakly) first order for Q>4, using an infinite system matrix product state implementation. We then employ this new approach to address the unsettled question of deconfined quantum criticality in the S=1/2 Néel to valence bond solid transition in two dimensions, focusing on the square lattice J-Q model. Our quantum Monte Carlo simulations reveal that both order parameters remain finite at the transition, directly confirming a first-order scenario with wide reaching implications in condensed matter and quantum field theory. 
Joint work with Jonathan D’Emidio and Alexander Eberharter, arXiv:2106.15462

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.