n-point functions at finite temperature

TL;DR

This paper presents a simplified method for calculating n-point functions at finite temperature using the closed time path formalism, reducing computational complexity by decomposing functions into fewer independent components.

Contribution

The authors introduce a compact decomposition of time-ordered n-point functions into retarded/advanced functions, streamlining real-time finite temperature calculations.

Findings

Reduced the number of independent components needed for n-point functions.

Provided a new formalism that simplifies real-time finite temperature calculations.

Enhanced computational efficiency in thermal quantum field theory.

Abstract

We study $n$-point functions at finite temperature in the closed time path formalism. With the help of two basic column vectors and their dual partners we derive a compact decomposition of the time-ordered $n$-point functions with $2^n$ components in terms of $2^{n-1} -1$ independent retarded/advanced $n$-point functions. This representation greatly simplifies calculations in the real-time formalism.