Effective Field Theory Program for Conformal Quantum Anomalies

TL;DR

This paper discusses how conformal quantum anomalies lead to bound states in systems with scale separation, exemplified by dipole-bound anions, through a renormalization mechanism in the strong-coupling regime.

Contribution

It introduces an effective field theory framework for understanding conformal anomalies and their role in binding phenomena across different physical systems.

Findings

Conformal states emerge in scale-separated systems.

Renormalization induces binding in strong-coupling regimes.

Dipole-bound anions exemplify the theoretical mechanism.

Abstract

The emergence of conformal states is established for any problem involving a domain of scales where the long-range, SO(2,1) conformally invariant interaction is applicable. Whenever a clear-cut separation of ultraviolet and infrared cutoffs is in place, this renormalization mechanism produces binding in the strong-coupling regime. A realization of this phenomenon, in the form of dipole-bound anions, is discussed.