2
$\begingroup$

It is known that the axial anomaly (chiral anomaly, the left L- right R) shows that $U(1)_A$-axial symmetry is not a global symmetry at quantum level.

In particular, one can consider the (1) fundamental fermion and (2) adjoit fermion for QCD. The $U(1)_A$-axial symmetry is not a symmetry for both cases, but there are discrete sectors that survive as a symmetry within $U(1)_A$.

What are the remained discrete axial symmetries for (1) fundamental fermion and (2) adjoint fermion, say for a Lie group G (like SU(N))?

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

2
$\begingroup$

The discrete symmetry is the symmetry of the corresponding 't Hooft vertex. For an $SU(N_c)$ gauge group this symmetry is $Z_{N_f}$ in the case of fundamental fermions, and $Z_{N_c}$ in the case of adjoint fermions.

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.