Finite Temperature Quantum Field Theory in Minkowski Space
Mar, 198348 pages
Published in:
- Annals Phys. 152 (1984) 105
Report number:
- MIT-CTP-1078
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Abstract: (Elsevier)
We formulate finite-temperature quantum field theories in Minkowski space (real time) using Feynman path integrals. We show that at non-zero temperature a new field arises which plays the role of a ghost field and is necessary for unambiguous Feynman rules. Consequently, the finite-temperature Lagrangian is different from the zero-temperature one and a new, discrete Z 2 symmetry arises. We discuss the functional formalism and spontaneous symmetry breakdown at finite temperature and also the possibility of spontaneous breakdown of the (thermal) Z 2 symmetry.- FIELD THEORY: FINITE TEMPERATURE
- FIELD THEORY: PATH INTEGRAL
- FIELD THEORY: EFFECTIVE ACTION
- FIELD THEORY: GHOST
- SYMMETRY: Z(2)
- SPONTANEOUS SYMMETRY BREAKING
- PERTURBATION THEORY
- APPROXIMATION: EFFECTIVE POTENTIAL
- THERMODYNAMICS
- FEYNMAN GRAPH
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