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Cold atom simulation of interacting relativistic quantum field theories
J Ignacio Cirac1, Paolo Maraner, Jiannis K Pachos
1Max-Planck-Institut für Quantenoptik, Hans-Kopfermann-Strasse 1, D-85748 Garching, Germany.
Physical Review Letters
|January 15, 2011
Summary
We show that Dirac fermions can be created in cold atom systems. These systems offer a new way to study interacting quantum field theories, like the Thirring and Gross-Neveu models.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Field Theory
- Cold Atom Physics
- Condensed Matter Physics
Background:
- Dirac fermions are fundamental particles with unique properties.
- Interacting quantum field theories are crucial for understanding many physical phenomena.
- Cold atom systems offer a controllable platform for simulating complex quantum systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the emergence of Dirac fermions in designed cold atom systems.
- To explore self-interacting Dirac fermions and those coupled to dynamic scalar fields.
- To present cold atom experiments as an alternative to lattice gauge theory simulations for studying quantum field theories.
Main Methods:
- Designing specific bosonic and fermionic cold atom systems.
- Implementing two-dimensional models, including the self-interacting Thirring model.
- Utilizing a model of Dirac fermions coupled to a dynamic scalar field, leading to the Gross-Neveu model.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the emergence of Dirac fermions in the low-energy sector of cold atom systems.
- Successfully modeled the self-interacting Thirring model and the Gross-Neveu model using cold atoms.
- Showcased the potential of these systems for probing spectral and correlation properties.
Conclusions:
- Cold atom systems provide a viable platform for realizing and studying Dirac fermions.
- These experiments offer a novel approach to investigate interacting quantum field theories.
- The proposed methods present a valuable alternative to traditional lattice gauge theory simulations.
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