The static force from generalized Wilson loops using gradient flow

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new lattice QCD method using gradient flow to compute the static quark-antiquark force by inserting a chromoelectric field into Wilson loops, improving renormalization handling.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel gradient flow-based technique for calculating static forces in lattice QCD, addressing renormalization issues associated with chromoelectric field insertions.

Findings

Flowed static potential matches previous measurements

Gradient flow improves renormalization handling

Method offers a new way to compute static forces

Abstract

We explore a novel approach to compute the force between a static quark-antiquark pair with the gradient flow algorithm on the lattice. The approach is based on inserting a chromoelectric field in a Wilson loop. The renormalization issues, associated with the finite size of the chromoelectric field on the lattice, can be solved with the use of gradient flow. We compare numerical results for the flowed static potential to our previous measurement of the same observable without a gradient flow.