arXiv · cond-mat/9212001
The Mass Gap of the Nonlinear Sigma Model through the Finite Temperature Effective Action
Abstract
The $O(3)$ nonlinear $σ$ model is studied in the disordered phase, using the techniques of the effective action and finite temperature field theory. The nonlinear constraint is implemented through a Lagrange multiplier. The finite temperature effective potential for this multiplier is calculated at one loop. The existence of a nontrivial minimum for this potential is the signal of a disordered phase in which the lowest excited state is a massive triplet. The mass gap is easily calculated as a function of temperature in dimensions 1, 2 and 3. In dimension 1, this gap is known as the Haldane gap, and its temperature dependence is compared with experimental results.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
D. Senechal. 1992-12-09. The Mass Gap of the Nonlinear Sigma Model through the Finite Temperature Effective Action. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevb.47.8353
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.