Gravitating vortons as ring solitons in general relativity

TL;DR

This paper explores gravitating vortons, ring-shaped solitons in a U(1)xU(1) field theory, revealing new gravitational features like ergoregions and limited frequency ranges, and introduces novel solutions such as semitopological vortons and di-vortons.

Contribution

It extends the understanding of vortons by including gravity effects, discovering new solution types and gravitational phenomena not seen in flat spacetime models.

Findings

Vortons exhibit non-uniqueness in flat spacetime.

Gravity introduces ergoregions and spiral frequency dependence.

New solutions include semitopological vortons and di-vortons.

Abstract

Vortons can be viewed as (flat space-) field theory analogs of black rings in general relativity. They are made from loops of vortices, being sustained against collapse by the centrifugal force. In this work we discuss such configurations in the global version of Witten's U(1)xU(1) theory. We first consider solutions in a flat spacetime background and show their non-uniqueness. The inclusion of gravity leads to new features. In particular, an ergoregion can occur. Also, similar to boson stars, we show that the vortons exist only in a limited frequency range. The coupling to gravity gives rise to a spiral-like frequency dependence of the mass and charge. New solutions of the model describing 'semitopological vortons' and 'di-vortons' are also discussed.