Finite-temperature quantum field theory in Minkowski space |
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Authors: | AJ Niemi GW Semenoff |
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Institution: | 1. Center for Theoretical Physics, Laboratory for Nuclear Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 USA;2. Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 USA |
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Abstract: | 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 Z2 symmetry arises. We discuss the functional formalism and spontaneous symmetry breakdown at finite temperature and also the possibility of spontaneous breakdown of the (thermal) Z2 symmetry. |
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