New phases of finite temperature gauge theory from an extended action

TL;DR

This paper investigates new exotic phases in finite temperature SU(3) and SU(4) gauge theories by adding an adjoint Polyakov loop term, revealing distinct symmetry-breaking patterns and confirming these phases through analytical free energy calculations.

Contribution

It introduces and analyzes new phases in finite temperature gauge theories using lattice simulations and perturbation theory, expanding understanding of symmetry breaking in these systems.

Findings

Distinct Z(3) symmetry breaking pattern in SU(3) new phase

Partial Z(4) symmetry breaking to Z(2) in SU(4) phase

Confirmation of new phases via high-temperature perturbation theory

Abstract

We study the behavior of the order parameter, the phase diagram, and the thermodynamics of exotic phases of finite temperature gauge theory. Lattice simulations were performed in SU(3) and SU(4) with an adjoint Polyakov loop term added to the standard Wilson action. In SU(3), the pattern of Z(3) symmetry breaking in the new phase is distinct from the pattern observed in the deconfined phase. In SU(4), the Z(4) symmetry is spontaneously broken down to Z(2), representing a partially-confined phase. The existence of the new phases is confirmed in analytical calculations of the free energy based on high-temperature perturbation theory.