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View Full Version : Symmetry breaking: what is the subgroup left?


krishna mohan
May19-10, 03:34 AM
Hi....

I have studied the standard model of particle physics and know that spontaneous symmetry breaking by a vev breaks SU(2)xU(1) to a U(1). How do we know to what group a vev will break the original group?

I have heard of Dynkin diagrams. Are they only for continuous groups? Is there any other method for discrete groups?

Any reference given will be appreciated.