Degenerate vortices and worldline instantons in three-dimensional gauge theories
Abstract
In this paper we continue the study of particlelike topological solitons with degenerate masses and their mixing due to worldline instantons. Previously, this phenomenon was studied in ( 1 + 1 )-dimensional setups. Here we take a step further and consider degenerate vortices in 2 + 1 dimensions. We find that, while classically such vortices may be degenerate, they generally mix and split at the quantum level. Supersymmetry protects BPS-saturated vortices only when the number of supercharges in the bulk is large enough.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Black Holes and Theoretical Physics
Particle physics theoretical and experimental studies
Quantum Chromodynamics and Particle Interactions
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Physical review. D/Physical review. D.
- Volume
- 113
- Issue
- 10
- Publication date
- 6 April 2026
- Language
- EN