The phase diagram of quantum chromodynamics

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent advances in understanding the QCD phase diagram, including lattice techniques, phase transition characteristics, and the effects of chemical potential on the phase structure.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of lattice QCD results at zero and non-zero chemical potential, highlighting key features of the phase diagram.

Findings

Determination of the transition temperature and order at zero chemical potential

Identification of the critical point at non-zero chemical potential

Analysis of the equation of state across different phases

Abstract

Recent results on the QCD phase diagram are reviewed. We begin with a detailed introduction of lattice techniques. Then results at vanishing chemical potential are presented. The order of the phase transition, the transition temperature and the equation of state are discussed. At non-vanishing chemical potential we study the mu-T phase line, the critical point as well as the equation of state.