Gauge Defect Networks in Two-Dimensional CFT

TL;DR

This paper explores the gauge anomaly in two-dimensional sigma models by interpreting it as an obstruction to forming a topological defect network that trivializes the gauged model.

Contribution

It introduces a novel interpretation of gauge anomalies through the lens of topological defect networks in 2D sigma models.

Findings

Gauge anomaly corresponds to an obstruction to defect network construction.

Topological defect networks can trivialize gauged sigma models.

Provides a new geometric perspective on gauge anomalies.

Abstract

An interpretation of the gauge anomaly of the two-dimensional multi-phase sigma model is presented in terms of an obstruction to the existence of a topological defect network implementing a local trivialisation of the gauged sigma model.