Topologically Massive Gauge Theory with O(2) Symmetry

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the vacuum structure and non-perturbative transitions in an $O(2)$ topologically massive gauge theory on a torus, revealing four classical vacua and vortex-induced transitions.

Contribution

It provides a detailed study of the vacuum landscape and transition mechanisms in $O(2)$ topologically massive gauge theory, highlighting the role of boundary conditions and vortices.

Findings

Identifies four classical vacua due to $O(2)$ symmetry components.

Describes boundary conditions imposed by different vacua.

Explores vortex-induced non-perturbative transitions between vacua.

Abstract

We discuss the structure of the vacua in $O(2)$ topologically massive gauge theory on a torus. Since $O(2)$ has two connected components, there are four classical vacua. The different vacua impose different boundary conditions on the gauge potentials. We also discuss the non-perturbative transitions between the vacua induced by vortices of the theory.