A Novel Symmetry in Sigma Models

TL;DR

This paper identifies a new symmetry in a class of non-linear sigma models, which also appears in Chern-Simons theories, suggesting a topological origin and unifying certain models through non-Abelian duality.

Contribution

It introduces a novel symmetry in sigma models and links it to Chern-Simons theories, revealing a topological aspect and encompassing models derived via non-Abelian duality.

Findings

New symmetry found in certain sigma models

Symmetry also present in Chern-Simons theories

Non-Abelian duality models are part of this class

Abstract

A class of non-linear sigma models possessing a new symmetry is identified. The same symmetry is also present in Chern-Simons theories. This hints at a possible topological origin for this class of sigma models. The non-linear sigma models obtained by non-Abelian duality are a particular case in this class.