Interpolating between Ising, XY-, and non-linear σ-models

The β-functions of O(N)-symmetric non-linear σ-models on the lattice were recently discovered to be non-monotonic for N 3. We explain the non-monotonic behaviour as a non-perturbative lattice effect by relating it to the Kosterlitz-Thouless transition of the XY-model. We also relate the latter transition to the phase transition of the Ising model. These relationships are established by interpolating between the O(N)- and the O(N − 1)-symmetric non-linear σ-models by suppression of the Nth component of the N-vector field with a mass term. A critical line in the coupling-mass plane connects the critical point of the Ising model (N = 1) with the critical point of the XY-model (N = 2). This line extends towards the region of non-monotonic behaviour of the β-function of the O(3)-symmetric model. The nature of the transition lines is also investigated.