Novel Phases of a Baryon-Dense QCD-like Theory

TL;DR

This paper explores new phases in a strongly coupled QCD-like theory at finite baryon density, revealing spontaneous symmetry breaking and phase transitions that could inform understanding of real QCD behavior.

Contribution

It introduces a novel analysis of baryon-dense phases in a supersymmetric QCD model with anomaly mediation, highlighting spontaneous symmetry breaking and phase transitions.

Findings

Identification of phases with baryon number and parity breaking

Observation of first- and second-order phase transitions

Insights into possible phases of real QCD at intermediate densities

Abstract

We investigate the phases of a strongly coupled QCD-like theory at finite baryon chemical potential using s-confining supersymmetric QCD deformed by anomaly-mediated supersymmetry breaking. Focusing on the case of three colors and four flavors, we identify novel phases including spontaneous breaking of baryon number and/or parity. Both first-order and second-order phase transitions are observed as the baryon chemical potential is varied. These findings may offer insights into possible phases of real QCD at intermediate baryon densities.