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Non-Invertible Symmetries and Phase Transitions in Three Dimensions

ORAL

Abstract

Quantum systems in 3+1-dimension that are invariant under gauging a $G^{(1)}$ one-form symmetry contain non-invertible topological defects which can be obtained by gauging in half of spacetime. We show that a symmetry preserving gapped phase is incongruous with the existence of certain duality defects. These duality defects are realized in Abelian lattice gauge theories and hence elucidate the nature of phase transitions in these systems.

Presenters

  • Anuj Apte

    University of Chicago

Authors

  • Anuj Apte

    University of Chicago

  • Clay Cordova

    University of Chicago

  • Ho-Tat Lam

    Massachusetts Institute of Technology