Gauge Theories with a Layered Phase

TL;DR

This paper investigates abelian gauge theories in higher dimensions with anisotropic couplings, identifying a layered phase and phase transitions, which could have implications for understanding phase structures in gauge theories.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of a layered phase in abelian gauge theories with anisotropic couplings across multiple dimensions, extending previous understanding of phase structures.

Findings

Layered phase exists in $4+D$ dimensions with anisotropic couplings.

A line of second order transitions separates the layered and Coulomb phases for $D extless=3$.

Layered phase persists with or without fermions.

Abstract

We study abelian gauge theories with anisotropic couplings in $4+D$ dimensions. A layered phase is present, in the absence as well as in the presence of fermions. A line of second order transitions separates the layered from the Coulomb phase, if $D\leq 3$.