Joint Contour Net analysis of lattice QCD data

TL;DR

This paper explores how multivariate topological visualization, especially the joint contour net, can aid physicists in analyzing lattice QCD data to predict phase transitions in nuclear matter.

Contribution

It demonstrates the application of the joint contour net to complex lattice QCD data, enhancing the interpretation of multivariate topological features for phase transition prediction.

Findings

Joint contour net reveals critical points in QCD phase diagrams.

Topological analysis improves understanding of scalar field interactions.

Method supports identifying phase transition regions.

Abstract

Lattice Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) is an approach used by theoretical physicists to model the strong nuclear force. This works at the sub-nuclear scale to bind quarks together into hadrons including the proton and neutron. One of the long term goals in lattice QCD is to produce a phase diagram of QCD matter as thermodynamic control parameters temperature and baryon chemical potential are varied. The ability to predict critical points in the phase diagram, known as phase transitions, is one of the on-going challenges faced by domain scientists. In this work we consider how multivariate topological visualisation techniques can be applied to simulation data to help domain scientists predict the location of phase transitions. In the process it is intended that applying these techniques to lattice QCD will strengthen the interpretation of output from multivariate topological algorithms, including the joint contour net. Lattice QCD presents an interesting opportunity for using these techniques as it offers a rich array of interacting scalar fields for analysis; however, it also presents unique challenges due to its reliance on quantum mechanics to interpret the data.