Abstract
It is well known that a local, unitary Poincaré-invariant 2D quantum field theory with a global scaling symmetry and a discrete non-negative spectrum of scaling dimensions necessarily has both a left and a right local conformal symmetry. In this Letter, we consider a chiral situation beginning with only a left global scaling symmetry and do not assume Lorentz invariance. We find that a left conformal symmetry is still implied, while right translations are enhanced either to a right conformal symmetry or a left Kac-Moody symmetry.
- Received 17 August 2011
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.107.161601
© 2011 American Physical Society
Synopsis
When Symmetries Conform to Theories
Published 14 October 2011
Theorists gain insight into mechanisms that enhance the available symmetries of various quantum field theories.
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