# Quantum fluctuations of the color flux tube

## TL;DR

This paper investigates quantum fluctuations of the flux tube in a confining gauge theory using an effective string model, and confirms its predictions through numerical simulations in 3D Z2 gauge theory.

## Contribution

It provides an exact, parameter-free prediction for Wilson loop ratios in the effective string framework and validates it with numerical data.

## Key findings

- Exact agreement between theoretical predictions and numerical results
- Parameter-free predictions for Wilson loop ratios
- Validation of effective string theory in 3D Z2 gauge theory

## Abstract

The quantum fluctuations of the flux tube joining two static sources in the confining phase of a lattice gauge theory are described by an effective string theory. The predictions of the latter for ratios of Wilson loops of equal perimeter do not contain any free parameters, and can be computed exactly for large Wilson loops. We compare these predictions with numerical results in 3D $Z_2$ gauge theory, finding complete agreement.