Multi--Layer Structure in the Strongly Coupled 5D Abelian Higgs Model

TL;DR

This paper investigates the phase transitions in a five-dimensional anisotropic Abelian Higgs model, revealing layer decoupling and potential changes in transition order through Monte Carlo simulations and mean field analysis.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the phase structure of the 5D Abelian Higgs model, especially regarding layer decoupling and the nature of phase transitions.

Findings

First order phase transition with layer decoupling observed.

Transition may become second order with varying Higgs couplings.

Monte Carlo simulations and mean field techniques used for analysis.

Abstract

We explore the phase diagram of the five-dimensional anisotropic Abelian Higgs model by Monte Carlo simulations. In particular, we study the transition between the confining phase and the four dimensional layered Higgs phase. We find that, in a certain region of the lattice parameter space, this transition can be first order and that each layer moves into the Higgs phase independently of the others (decoupling of layers). As the Higgs couplings vary, we find, using mean field techniques, that this transition may probably become second order.