Vortex Line Nucleation of First-Order Transition U(1)-Symmetric Field Systems

TL;DR

This paper reveals that in U(1)-symmetric field systems, first-order phase transitions are initiated by vortex lines rather than bubbles, challenging traditional understanding of early universe phase transitions.

Contribution

It introduces the concept that vortex lines, instead of bubbles, nucleate first-order transitions in U(1)-symmetric fields, prompting a reevaluation of the Kibble mechanism.

Findings

Vortex lines are the primary nucleation sites for first-order transitions.

Challenges the traditional bubble nucleation paradigm in phase transitions.

Implications for early universe cosmology and phase transition models.

Abstract

We show that in field systems with U(1)-symmetry, first-order transitions are nucleated by vortex lines, not bubbles, thus calling for a reinvestigation of the Kibble mechanism for the phase transition of the early universe.