The gauge boson sector ofU(1) lattice theories

We examine theU(1) Hamiltonian lattice gauge theory in (2+1) and (3+1) dimensions. We set up a differential eigenvalue equation for the energy levels of the system, valid for all values of the coupling parameter. We show how the standard strong coupling results are retrieved, and also present a weak coupling solution which exhibits (unconfined) transverse photons as the phonons of the lattice. The lattice approach is thus seen to be appropriate for non-confining as well as for confining systems.