The F-Theorem and F-Maximization

TL;DR

This paper reviews the F-theorem and F-maximization principles in conformal field theories, discussing their theoretical foundations, examples, and checks, emphasizing the role of three-sphere free energy in RG flows.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of the F-theorem and F-maximization, including derivations, examples, and validation checks within the context of supersymmetric and non-supersymmetric CFTs.

Findings

F decreases along RG flows connecting UV and IR CFTs

F-maximization determines superconformal R-symmetry in N=2 SCFTs

Numerous examples support the F-theorem's validity

Abstract

This contribution contains a review of the role of the three-sphere free energy F in recent developments related to the F-theorem and F-maximization. The F-theorem states that for any Lorentz-invariant RG trajectory connecting a conformal field theory CFT_UV in the ultraviolet to a conformal field theory CFT_IR, the F-coefficient decreases: F_UV > F_IR. I provide many examples of CFTs where one can compute F, approximately or exactly, and discuss various checks of the F-theorem. F-maximization is the principle that in an N=2 SCFT, viewed as the deep IR limit of an RG trajectory preserving N=2 supersymmetry, the superconformal R-symmetry maximizes F within the set of all R-symmetries preserved by the RG trajectory. I review the derivation of this result and provide examples.