Showing papers on "Superpotential published in 2012"

An E7 Surprise

Abstract: We explore some curious implications of Seiberg duality for an SU(2) four-dimensional gauge theory with eight chiral doublets. We argue that two copies of the theory can be deformed by an exactly marginal quartic superpotential so that they acquire an enhanced E 7 flavor symmetry. We argue that a single copy of the theory can be used to define an E 7-invariant superconformal boundary condition for a theory of 28 five-dimensional free hypermultiplets. Finally, we derive similar statements for three-dimensional gauge theories such as an SU(2) gauge theory with six chiral doublets or N f = 4 SQED.

Knot Invariants from Four-Dimensional Gauge Theory

Abstract: It has been argued based on electric-magnetic duality and other ingredients that the Jones polynomial of a knot in three dimensions can be computed by counting the solutions of certain gauge theory equations in four dimensions. Here, we attempt to verify this directly by analyzing the equations and counting their solutions, without reference to any quantum dualities. After suitably perturbing the equations to make their behavior more generic, we are able to get a fairly clear understanding of how the Jones polynomial emerges. The main ingredient in the argument is a link between the four-dimensional gauge theory equations in question and conformal blocks for degenerate representations of the Virasoro algebra in two dimensions. Along the way we get a better understanding of how our subject is related to a variety of new and old topics in mathematical physics, ranging from the Bethe ansatz for the Gaudin spin chain to the M-theory description of BPS monopoles and the relation between Chern-Simons gauge theory and Virasoro conformal blocks.

A sufficient condition for de Sitter vacua in type IIB string theory

Abstract: We derive a sufficient condition for realizing meta-stable de Sitter vacua with small positive cosmological constant within type IIB string theory flux compactifications with spontaneously broken supersymmetry. There are a number of ‘lamp post’ construc-tions of de Sitter vacua in type IIB string theory and supergravity. We show that one of them — the method of ‘Kahler uplifting’ by F-terms from an interplay between non-perturbative effects and the leading α ′-correction — allows for a more general parametric understanding of the existence of de Sitter vacua. The result is a condition on the values of the flux induced superpotential and the topological data of the Calabi-Yau compactification, which guarantees the existence of a meta-stable de Sitter vacuum if met. Our analysis explicitly includes the stabilization of all moduli, i.e. the Kahler, dilaton and complex structure moduli, by the interplay of the leading perturbative and non-perturbative effects at parametrically large volume.

Nonlinear supersymmetric quantum mechanics: concepts and realizations

Abstract: The nonlinear supersymmetric (SUSY) approach to spectral problems in quantum mechanics (QM) is reviewed. Its building from the chains (ladders) of linear SUSY systems is outlined and different one-dimensional and two-dimensional realizations are described. It is elaborated how the nonlinear SUSY approach provides two new methods of SUSY separation of variables for various two-dimensional models. In the framework of these methods, a partial and/or complete solution of some two-dimensional models becomes possible. The full classification of ladder-reducible and irreducible chains of SUSY algebras in one-dimensional QM is given. The emergence of hidden symmetries and spectrum generating algebras is elucidated in the context of the nonlinear SUSY in one-dimensional stationary and non-stationary, as well as in two-dimensional QM.

Non-Abelian Localization for Supersymmetric Yang-Mills-Chern-Simons Theories on Seifert Manifold

Abstract: We derive non-Abelian localization formulas for supersymmetric Yang-Mills-Chern-Simons theory with matters on a Seifert manifold $M$, which is the three-dimensional space of a circle bundle over a two-dimensional Riemann surface $\ensuremath{\Sigma}$, by using the cohomological approach introduced by K\"all\'en. We find that the partition function and the vacuum expectation value of the supersymmetric Wilson loop reduces to a finite dimensional integral and summation over classical flux configurations labeled by discrete integers. We also find that the partition function reduces further to just a discrete sum over integers in some cases, and evaluate the supersymmetric index (Witten index) exactly on ${S}^{1}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\ensuremath{\Sigma}$. The index completely agrees with the previous prediction from field theory and branes. We discuss a vacuum structure of the Aharony-Bergman-Jafferis-Maldacena theory deduced from the localization.

Higher-derivative chiral superfield actions coupled to N = 1 supergravity

Abstract: We construct $\mathcal{N}=1$ supergravity extensions of scalar field theories with higher-derivative kinetic terms. Special attention is paid to the auxiliary fields, whose elimination leads not only to corrections to the kinetic terms, but to new expressions for the potential energy as well. For example, a potential energy can be generated even in the absence of a superpotential. Our formalism allows one to write a supergravity extension of any higher-derivative scalar field theory and therefore has applications to both particle physics and cosmological model building. As an illustration, we couple the higher-derivative Dirac-Born-Infeld action describing a 3-brane in six dimensions to $\mathcal{N}=1$ supergravity. This displays a number of new features including the fact that in the regime where the higher-derivative kinetic terms become important, the potential tends to be everywhere negative.

From black holes to quivers

Abstract: Middle cohomology states on the Higgs branch of supersymmetric quiver quantum mechanics — also known as pure Higgs states — have recently emerged as possible microscopic candidates for single-centered black hole micro-states, as they carry zero angular momentum and appear to be robust under wall-crossing. Using the connection between quiver quantum mechanics on the Coulomb branch and the quantum mechanics of multi-centered black holes, we propose a general algorithm for reconstructing the full moduli-dependent cohomology of the moduli space of an arbitrary quiver, in terms of the BPS invariants of the pure Higgs states. We analyze many examples of quivers with loops, including all cyclic Abelian quivers and several examples with two loops or non-Abelian gauge groups, and provide supporting evidence for this proposal. We also develop methods to count pure Higgs states directly.

Gravitational Instantons and Fluxes from M/F-theory on Calabi-Yau fourfolds

Abstract: We compactify four-dimensional N=1 gauged supergravity theories on a circle including fluxes for shift-symmetric scalars. Four-dimensional Taub-NUT gravitational instantons universally correct the three-dimensional superpotential in the absence of fluxes. In the presence of fluxes these Taub-NUT instanton contributions are no longer gauge-invariant. Invariance can be restored by gauge instantons on top of Taub-NUT instantons. We establish the embedding of this scenario into M-theory. Circle fluxes and gaugings arise from a restricted class of M-theory four-form fluxes on a resolved Calabi-Yau fourfold. The M5-brane on the base of the elliptic fourfold dualizes into the universal Taub-NUT instanton. In the presence of fluxes this M5-brane is anomalous. We argue that anomaly free contributions arise from involved M5-brane geometries dual to gauge-instantons on top of Taub-NUT instantons. Adding a four-dimensional superpotential to the gravitational instanton corrections leads to three-dimensional Anti-de Sitter vacua at stabilized compactification radius. We comment on the possibility to uplift these M-theory vacua, and to tunnel to four-dimensional F-theory vacua.

Supersymmetry breaking due to moduli stabilization in string theory

Abstract: We consider the phenomenological consequences of fixing compactification moduli. In the simplest Kachru-Kallosh-Linde-Trivedi constructions, stabilization of internal dimensions is rather soft: weak scale masses for moduli are generated, and are of order ${m}_{\ensuremath{\sigma}}\ensuremath{\sim}{m}_{3/2}$. As a consequence one obtains a pattern of soft supersymmetry breaking masses found in gravity and/or anomaly mediated supersymmetry breaking (AMSB) models. These models may lead to destabilization of internal dimensions in the early universe, unless the Hubble constant during inflation is very small. Fortunately, strong stabilization of compactified dimensions can be achieved by a proper choice of the superpotential (e.g., in the Kallosh-Linde model with a racetrack superpotential). This allows for a solution of the cosmological moduli problem and for a successful implementation of inflation in supergravity. We show that strong moduli stabilization leads to a very distinct pattern of soft supersymmetry breaking masses. In general, we find that soft scalar masses remain of order the gravitino mass, while gaugino masses nearly vanish at the tree level; i.e., they are of order ${m}_{3/2}^{2}/{m}_{\ensuremath{\sigma}}$. Radiative corrections generate contributions to gaugino masses reminiscent of AMSB models and a decoupled spectrum of scalars reminiscent of split supersymmetry. This requires a relatively large gravitino mass [$\ensuremath{\sim}\mathcal{O}(100)\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{TeV}$], resolving the cosmological gravitino problem and problems with tachyonic staus in AMSB models.

S 3 /Z n partition function and dualities

Abstract: We investigate $ {S^3}/{{\mathbb{Z}}_n} $ partition function of $ \mathcal{N}=2 $ supersymmetric gauge theories. A gauge theory on the orbifold has degenerate vacua specified by the holonomy. The partition function is obtained by summing up the contributions of saddle points with different holonomies. An appropriate choice of the phase of each contribution is essential to obtain the partition function. We determine the relative phases in the holonomy sum in a few examples by using duality to non-gauge theories. In the case of odd n the phase factors can be absorbed by modifying a single function appearing in the partition function.

Emerging potentials in higher-derivative gauged chiral models coupled to \mathcal{N}=1 supergravity

Abstract: We present a new method to introduce scalar potentials to gauge-invariant chiral models coupled to supergravity. The theories under consideration contain consistent higher-derivative terms which do not give rise to instabilities and ghost states. The chiral auxiliaries are not propagating and can be integrated out. Their elimination gives rise to emerging potentials even when there is not a superpotential to start with. We present the case of a single chiral multiplet with and without a superpotential and, in the gauged theory, up to two chiral multiplets coupled to supergravity with no superpotential. A general feature of the emergent potential is that it is negative defined leading to anti-de Sitter vacua. In the gauge models, competing D-terms may lift the potential leading to stable and metastable de Sitter and Minkowski vacua as well with spontaneously broken supersymmetry.

Emerging Potentials in Higher-Derivative Gauged Chiral Models Coupled to N=1 Supergravity

Abstract: We present a new method to introduce scalar potentials to gauge-invariant chiral models coupled to supergravity. The theories under consideration contain consistent higher-derivative terms which do not give rise to instabilities and ghost states. The chiral auxiliaries are not propagating and can be integrated out. Their elimination gives rise to emerging potentials even when there is not a superpotential to start with. We present the case of a single chiral multiplet with and without a superpotential and, in the gauged theory, up to two chiral multiplets coupled to supergravity with no superpotential. A general feature of the emergent potential is that it is negative defined leading to anti-de Sitter vacua. In the gauge models, competing D-terms may lift the potential leading to stable and metastable de Sitter and Minkowski vacua as well with spontaneously broken supersymmetry.

Supersymmetric states in large N Chern-Simons-matter theories

Abstract: In this paper we study the spectrum of BPS operators/states in $ \mathcal{N} = {2} $ superconformal U(N) Chern-Simons-matter theories with adjoint chiral matter fields, with and without superpotential. The superconformal indices and conjectures on the full supersymmetric spectrum of the theories in the large N limit with up to two adjoint matter fields are presented. Our results suggest that some of these theories may have supergravity duals at strong coupling, while some others may be dual to higher spin theories of gravity at strong coupling. For the $ \mathcal{N} = {2} $ theory with no superpotential, we study the renormalization of R-charge at finite ’t Hooft coupling using “ $ \mathcal{Z} $ -minimization”. A particularly intriguing result is found in the case of one adjoint matter.

Two-loop SQCD corrections to Higgs-quark-quark couplings in the generic MSSM

Abstract: In this article we compute the two-loop SQCD corrections to Higgs-quark-quark couplings in the generic MSSM generated by diagrams involving squarks and gluinos. We give analytic results for the two-loop contributions in the limit of vanishing external momenta for general SUSY masses valid in the MSSM with general flavour-structure. Working in the decoupling limit (M_SUSY >> v) we resum all chirally enhanced corrections (related to Higgs-quark-quark couplings) up to order \alpha_s^(n+1) tan(\beta)^n. This resummation allows for a more precise determination of the Yukawa coupling and CKM elements of the MSSM superpotential necessary for the study of Yukawa coupling unification. The knowledge of the Yukawa couplings of the MSSM superpotential in addition allows us to derive the effective Higgs-quark-quark couplings entering FCNC processes. These effective vertices can in addition be used for the calculation of Higgs decays into quarks as long as M_SUSY > M_Higgs holds. Furthermore, our calculation is also necessary for consistently including the chirally enhanced self-energies contributions into the calculation of FCNC processes in the MSSM beyond leading order. At two-loop order, we find an enhancement of the SUSY threshold corrections, induced by the quark self-energies, of approximately 9% for \mu=M_SUSY compared to the one-loop result. At the same time, the matching scale dependence of the effective Higgs-quark-quark couplings is significantly reduced.

Nonextremal black holes in gauged supergravity and the real formulation of special geometry II

Abstract: In arXiv:1207.2679 a new prescription for finding nonextremal black hole solutions to N=2, D=4 Fayet-Iliopoulos gauged supergravity was presented, and explicit solutions of various models containing one vector multiplet were constructed. Here we use the same method to find new nonextremal black holes to more complicated models. We also provide a general recipe to construct non-BPS extremal solutions for an arbitrary prepotential, as long as an axion-free condition holds. These follow from a set of first-order conditions, and are related to the corresponding supersymmetric black holes by a multiplication of the charge vector with a constant field rotation matrix S. The fake superpotential driving this first-order flow is nothing else than Hamilton's characteristic function in a Hamilton-Jacobi formalism, and coincides in the supersymmetric case (when S is plus or minus the identity) with the superpotential proposed by Dall'Agata and Gnecchi in arXiv:1012.3756. For the nonextremal black holes that asymptote to (magnetic) AdS, we compute both the mass coming from holographic renormalization and the one appearing in the superalgebra. The latter correctly vanishes in the BPS case, but also for certain values of the parameters that do not correspond to any known supersymmetric solution of N=2 gauged supergravity. We finally show that the product of all horizon areas depends only on the charges and the asymptotic value of the cosmological constant.

Supergravity for effective theories

Abstract: Higher-derivative operators are central elements of any effective field theory. In supersymmetric theories, these include operators with additional derivatives that appear explicitly in the superspace description. We develop a toolkit for coupling such super-symmetric effective field theories to supergravity. We explain how to write the action for minimal supergravity coupled to chiral superfields with arbitrary numbers of derivatives and curvature couplings. We discuss two examples in detail, showing how the component actions agree with the expectations from the linearized description in terms of a Ferrara-Zumino multiplet. In a companion paper [1], we apply the formalism to the effective theory of inflation.

Matrix superpotentials and superintegrable systems for arbitrary spin

Abstract: A countable set of quantum superintegrable systems for arbitrary spin is solved explicitly using tools of supersymmetric quantum mechanics. It is shown that these systems (introduced by Pronko (2007 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 40 13331)) are special cases of models with shape invariant effective potentials that have recently been classified in Nikitin and Karadzhov (2011 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 44 305204, 2011 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 44 445202).

Supersymmetric Vacua in Random Supergravity

Abstract: We determine the spectrum of scalar masses in a supersymmetric vacuum of a general N=1 supergravity theory, with the Kahler potential and superpotential taken to be random functions of N complex scalar fields. We derive a random matrix model for the Hessian matrix and compute the eigenvalue spectrum. Tachyons consistent with the Breitenlohner-Freedman bound are generically present, and although these tachyons cannot destabilize the supersymmetric vacuum, they do influence the likelihood of the existence of an `uplift' to a metastable vacuum with positive cosmological constant. We show that the probability that a supersymmetric AdS vacuum has no tachyons is formally equivalent to the probability of a large fluctuation of the smallest eigenvalue of a certain real Wishart matrix. For normally-distributed matrix entries and any N, this probability is given exactly by P = exp(-2N^2|W|^2/m_{susy}^2), with W denoting the superpotential and m_{susy} the supersymmetric mass scale; for more general distributions of the entries, our result is accurate when N >> 1. We conclude that for |W| \gtrsim m_{susy}/N, tachyonic instabilities are ubiquitous in configurations obtained by uplifting supersymmetric vacua.

On Seven-Brane Dependent Instanton Prefactors in F-theory

Abstract: We study the moduli-dependent prefactor of M5-instanton corrections to the superpotential in four-dimensional F-theory compactifications. In light of the M-theory and type IIb limits and also heterotic duality, we propose that the explicit moduli dependence of the prefactor can be computed by a study of zero modes localized at intersections between the instanton and seven-branes. We present an instanton prefactor in an E_6 F-theory GUT which does not admit a heterotic dual and show that it vanishes if and only if a point of E_8 enhancement is present in the instanton worldvolume. More generically, we discuss the relationship between points of E_8 and superpotential zeroes and give sufficient conditions for such a point to cause a zero, even for an SU(5) GUT. We scan a large class of compactifications for instanton physics and demonstrate that many instantons have the same prefactor structure. We discuss the associated implications and complications for moduli stabilization. We present an explicit resolution and construction of G-flux in a generic E_6 GUT and identify a global compactification of the local model spectral cover which happens to facilitate prefactor computations. Via a Leray spectral sequence, we demonstrate the relationship between right-movers of heterotic worldsheet instantons, 3-3 strings of euclidean D3 instantons, and the Fermi zero modes of M5-instantons.

D-Term Dynamical Supersymmetry Breaking Generating Split N = 2 Gaugino Masses of Mixed Majorana-Dirac Type

Abstract: Under a few mild assumptions, supersymmetry (SUSY) in four dimensions is shown to be spontaneously broken in a metastable vacuum in a self-consistent Hartree–Fock approximation of Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer/Nambu–Jona-Lasinio (BCS/NJL) type to the leading order, in the gauge theory specified by the gauge kinetic function and the superpotential of adjoint chiral superfields, in particular, that possess extended SUSY spontaneously broken to at tree level. We derive an explicit form of the gap equation, showing the existence of a nontrivial solution. The gauginos in the observable sector receive mixed Majorana–Dirac masses and are split due to both the nonvanishing 〈D0〉 and 〈F0〉 induced with 〈D0〉. It is argued that proper physical applications and assessment of the range of the validity of our framework are made possible by rendering the approximation into expansion.

The Top $10^{500}$ Reasons Not to Believe in the Landscape

Abstract: The String Landscape is a fantasy. We actually have a plausible landscape of minimally supersymmetric $AdS_4$ solutions of supergravity modified by an exponential superpotential. None of these solutions is accessible to world sheet perturbation theory. If they exist as models of quantum gravity, they are defined by conformal field theories, and each is an independent quantum system, which makes no transitions to any of the others. This landscape has nothing to do with CDL tunneling or eternal inflation. A proper understanding of CDL transitions in QFT on a fixed background dS space, shows that the EI picture of this system is not justified within the approximation of low energy effective field theory. The cutoff independent physics, defined by the Euclidean functional integral over the 4-sphere admits only a finite number of instantons. Plausible extensions of these ideas to a quantum theory of gravity obeying the holographic principle explain all of the actual facts about CDL transitions in dS space, and lead to a picture radically different from eternal inflation. Theories of Eternal Inflation (EI) have to rely too heavily on the anthropic principle to be consistent with experiment. Given the vast array of effective low energy field theories that could be produced by the conventional picture of the string landscape one is forced to conclude that the most numerous anthropically allowed theories will disagree with experiment violently.

What is the discrete gauge symmetry of the R-parity violating MSSM?

Abstract: The lack of experimental evidence for supersymmetry motivates R-parity violating realizations of the MSSM. Dropping R-parity, alternative symmetries have to be imposed in order to stabilize the proton. We determine the possible discrete R and non-R symmetries, which allow for renormalizable R-parity violating terms in the superpotential and which, at the effective level, are consistent with the constraints from nucleon decay. Assuming a gauge origin, we require the symmetry to be discrete gauge anomaly-free, allowing also for cancellation via the Green Schwarz mechanism. Furthermore, we demand lepton number violating neutrino mass terms either at the renormalizable or non-renormalizable level. In order to solve the mu problem, the discrete Z_N or Z_N^R symmetries have to forbid any bilinear superpotential operator at tree level. In the case of renormalizable baryon number violation the smallest possible symmetry satisfying all conditions is a unique hexality Z_6^R. In the case of renormalizable lepton number violation the smallest symmetries are two hexalities, one Z_6 and one Z_6^R.

Liouville theory, N=2 gauge theories and accessory parameters

Abstract: The correspondence between the semiclassical limit of the DOZZ quantum Liouville theory and the Nekrasov-Shatashvili limit of the N = 2 (Omega-deformed) U(2) super-Yang-Mills theories is used to calculate the unknown accessory parameter of the Fuchsian uniformization of the 4-punctured sphere. The computation is based on the saddle point method. This allows to find an analytic expression for the N_f = 4, U(2) instanton twisted superpotential and, in turn, to sum up the 4-point classical block. It is well known that the critical value of the Liouville action functional is the generating function of the accessory parameters. This statement and the factorization property of the 4-point action allow to express the unknown accessory parameter as the derivative of the 4-point classical block with respect to the modular parameter of the 4-punctured sphere. It has been found that this accessory parameter is related to the sum of all rescaled column lengths of the so-called 'critical' Young diagram extremizing the instanton 'free energy'. It is shown that the sum over the 'critical' column lengths can be rewritten in terms of a contour integral in which the integrand is built out of certain special functions closely related to the ordinary Gamma function.

Exceptional orthogonal polynomials, QHJ formalism and SWKB quantization condition

Abstract: We study the quantum Hamilton–Jacobi (QHJ) equation of the recently obtained exactly solvable models, related to the newly discovered exceptional polynomials, and show that the QHJ formalism reproduces the exact eigenvalues and the eigenfunctions. The fact that the eigenfunctions have zeros and poles in complex locations leads to an unconventional singularity structure of the quantum momentum function p(x), the logarithmic derivative of the wavefunction, which forms the crux of the QHJ approach to quantization. A comparison of the singularity structure for these systems with the known exactly solvable and quasi-exactly solvable models reveals interesting differences. We find that the singularity structure of the momentum function for these new potentials lies between the above two distinct models, sharing similarities with both of them. This prompted us to examine the exactness of the supersymmetric Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (SWKB) quantization condition. The interesting singularity structure of p(x) and of the superpotential for these models has important consequences for the SWKB rule and in our proof of its exactness for these quantal systems.