Analysis of a Dilaton EFT for Lattice Data

TL;DR

This paper extends a dilaton-based effective field theory to analyze updated lattice data for SU(3) gauge theories with different fermion content, exploring quantum effects and uncertainties in the extrapolation process.

Contribution

It advances the dilaton EFT framework by applying it to new lattice data, including quantum loop effects and detailed uncertainty analysis.

Findings

Universal features identified in the EFT analysis

Quantum loop effects incorporated into the model

Uncertainties in zero fermion mass extrapolation discussed

Abstract

In a recent paper, we developed and applied a dilaton-based effective field theory (EFT) to the analysis of lattice-simulation data for a class of confining gauge theories with near-conformal infrared behavior. It was employed there at the classical level to the SU(3) gauge theory with eight Dirac fermions in the fundamental representation. Here, we explore the structure of the EFT further. We examine its application to lattice data (newly updated) for the SU(3) theory with eight Dirac fermions in the fundamental representation, and the SU(3) theory with two Dirac fermions in the sextet representation. In each case, we determine additional fit parameters and discuss uncertainties associated with extrapolation to zero fermion mass. We highlight universal features, study the EFT at the quantum loop level and discuss the importance of future lattice simulations.