Vortex Duality in Higher Dimensions

Beekman, A.J. (2011)

Doctoral Thesis

A dynamic vortex line traces out a world sheet in spacetime. This thesis shows that the information of all its dynamic behaviour is completely contained in the world sheet. Furthermore a mathematical framework for order–disorder phase transitions in terms of the proliferation of such vortex world sheets is presented, leading to the prediction of quantized vortex lines of electric current in phase-disordered superconductors.

• Duality
• Quantum phase transitions
• Topological defects
• Superconductivity

• All authors: Beekman, A.J.
• Supervisor: Zaanen, J.
• Committee: Nagaosa, N.; Sudbø, A.; Kes, P.H.; Ruitenbeek, J.M. van; Schalm, K.E.; Eliel, E.R.
• Qualification: Doctor (dr.)
• Awarding Institution: Leiden Institute of Physics (LION), Faculty of Science, Leiden University
• Date: 2011-12-01
• Title of host publication: Casimir PhD Series
• ISBN (print): 9789085931133
• Name: 2011-24
• Court: LEI Universiteit Leiden