Parity of theta term of Lagrangian

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the parity of the theta term in the Lagrangian, specifically examining the implications of its parity properties within the context of particle physics. Participants explore whether a P-odd Lagrangian is acceptable in physics and its relation to weak interactions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the theta term of the Lagrangian and investigates its parity properties, concluding that if ##\theta## is a simple number, then the Lagrangian is P-odd.
  • Another participant notes that the SU(2) of electroweak interactions breaks parity maximally, as it is a V-A type interaction that does not include interactions with right-handed particles.
  • A later reply references the Vafa-Witten mechanism, suggesting that the parity behavior of the theta-term supports the idea that classically ##\theta = 0##.
  • Some participants question whether a P-odd Lagrangian is normal in physics and seek clarification on the implications for weak interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of a P-odd Lagrangian, with some agreeing on the properties of weak interactions while others question the normalcy of such Lagrangians in physics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the broader acceptance of P-odd Lagrangians.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the nature of ##\theta## and its implications for the Lagrangian's parity, but these assumptions are not universally accepted or resolved. The relationship between the theta term and the Vafa-Witten mechanism is also noted but not fully explored.

illuminates
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I have a very simple question. Let's consider the theta term of Lagrangian:
$$L = \theta \frac{g^2}{32 \pi^2} G_{\mu \nu}^a \tilde{G}^{a, \mu \nu}$$
Investigate parity of this term:
$$P(G_{\mu \nu}^a)=+G_{\mu \nu}^a$$
$$P( \tilde{G}^{a, \mu \nu} ) =-G_{\mu \nu}^a$$
It is obvious. But what about ##\theta##? If ##\theta## is simple number then
$$P(\theta)=\theta$$
And in such case we have:
$$P(L)=-L$$
So Lagrangian is P-odd quantity. Is it normal? Is in physics P-odd Lagrangians somewhere else? What about week interaction? Is week interaction conserve parity of Lagrangian?
 
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it seems the topic is needed to shift in "High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics".
 
illuminates said:
it seems the topic is needed to shift in "High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics".

Thread has been moved.
 
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The SU(2) of electroweak interactions break parity maximally as it is a V-A type interaction. It does not include interactions with right-handed particles.
 
Orodruin said:
The SU(2) of electroweak interactions break parity maximally as it is a V-A type interaction. It does not include interactions with right-handed particles.
Thank you for replying. Would you say my reasoning above is true?
 
illuminates said:
So Lagrangian is P-odd quantity. Is it normal?

By the way, this parity behaviour of the theta-term is the basis for the Vafa-Witten mechanism, supposed to explain that classically ##\theta = 0##. See Vafa-Witten 84.
 

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