Condensed Matter Theory Seminar: Carolyn Zhang - University of Chicago: Exactly solvable model for a deconfined quantum critical point in one dimension

Deconfined quantum critical points (DQCPs) describe direct transitions between phases that have different, seemingly unrelated symmetries. Thus far, they have been studied primarily using field theory and numerical methods, due to the lack of analytically tractable lattice models. In this work, we construct an exactly solvable lattice model for a (1+1) dimensional DQCP. This DQCP occurs in the edge theory of a (2+1) dimensional bosonic symmetry protected topological (SPT) phase with Z_2xZ_2 symmetry. Using an exact mapping between the SPT edge theory and a Z_4 spin chain, we prove rigorously the existence of a DQCP and describe the full critical theory.
Host: Meng Cheng (m.cheng@yale.edu)