Linear Sigma Model Invariance Under O(N)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the invariance of the linear sigma model under the Orthogonal Group O(N) transformations, as presented in Peskin and Schroeder. Participants explore the mathematical formulation and implications of this invariance, seeking clarification on the correctness of their reasoning and notation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the linear sigma model Lagrangian and asserts its invariance under O(N) transformations, seeking validation of their approach.
  • Another participant provides a mathematical expression to demonstrate the invariance, which aligns with the original claim.
  • A later reply expresses uncertainty despite confirming the mathematical steps, indicating a desire for further examples to solidify understanding.
  • Some participants suggest viewing the invariance in a "vectorial way," noting that O(N) transformations are akin to rotations that preserve the squared value of vectors.
  • There is a reiteration of the conceptual understanding of the invariance, with one participant expressing satisfaction with the conceptual explanation but still feeling uneasy about the notation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the mathematical formulation of the invariance, but there remains uncertainty regarding the notation and its implications. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the comfort level with the notation used.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express concerns about the clarity of notation and its impact on their understanding, indicating potential limitations in communication of the mathematical concepts involved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for those studying quantum field theory, particularly in understanding the properties of the linear sigma model and the implications of symmetry transformations in theoretical physics.

dm4b
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In addition to my Faddeev-Popov Trick thread, I'm still tying up a few other loose ends before going into Part III of Peskin and Schroeder.

I was able to show that the other Lagrangians introduced thus far are indeed invariant under the transformations given. But, I am hung up on what I think should probably be the easiest - the linear sigma model from page 349, Chapter 11:

L[itex]_{LSM}[/itex] = (1/2) ( [itex]\partial_{\mu}[/itex] [itex]\phi^{i}[/itex] )^2 + (1/2)[itex]\mu[/itex]^2 ( [itex]\phi^{i}[/itex] )^2 - ([itex]\lambda/4![/itex]) ( [itex]\phi^{i}[/itex] )^4

which is invariant under

[itex]\phi^{i}[/itex] --> R[itex]^{ij}[/itex] [itex]\phi^{j}[/itex],

or, the Orthogonal Group O(N).

To show this, I've been using:

[itex]\phi^{j}[/itex] ^2 --> R[itex]^{ij}[/itex] R[itex]^{ik}[/itex] [itex]\phi^{j}[/itex] [itex]\phi^{k}[/itex]
= [itex]\delta^{j}_{k}[/itex] [itex]\phi^{j}[/itex] [itex]\phi^{k}[/itex]
= [itex]\phi^{j}[/itex] ^2

but, I guess I haven't convinced myself. Seems contrived (with the indices)

Any help/clarification would be greatly appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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ψ'j2=(Rjkψk)(Rjlψl)=δklψkψljlψjψlj2
 
andrien said:
ψ'j2=(Rjkψk)(Rjlψl)=δklψkψljlψjψlj2

Thanks andrien.

Looks like that's exactly what I have above in the OP, so I guess you're confirming that's correct.

Don't know why it still leaves me uneasy. I'll probably work out some explicit examples next, as that usually clears things up.
 
You can see it in a "vectorial way". O(N) are rotations and you know that these kind of transformations leave the value of the square of the vector unchanged. That's the same thing.
 
Einj said:
You can see it in a "vectorial way". O(N) are rotations and you know that these kind of transformations leave the value of the square of the vector unchanged. That's the same thing.

Thanks Einj. I totally get it in a conceptual way like that.

It was just the notation with the math. Wasn't quite sure I had it right!
 

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