Quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between quantum tunneling and symmetry breaking, specifically focusing on electroweak symmetry breaking and its potential similarities to Grand Unified Theory (GUT) symmetry breaking. The scope includes theoretical implications and interpretations within the context of inflation theory.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether quantum tunneling is relevant to symmetry breaking, particularly in the context of electroweak symmetry breaking.
  • One participant asserts that GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of a false vacuum through quantum tunneling, suggesting a parallel with electroweak symmetry breaking.
  • Another participant challenges the connection between inflation theory and GUT symmetry breaking, arguing that inflation can occur independently of GUTs and that the premise of the original question is flawed.
  • Further, it is noted that while older inflation models involved tunneling, newer models do not necessarily rely on this mechanism, indicating a shift in understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the relationship between quantum tunneling and symmetry breaking, with some asserting that the original premise is incorrect. The discussion remains unresolved as differing viewpoints persist without consensus.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in assumptions regarding the connection between inflation theory and GUT symmetry breaking, as well as the viability of different inflation models. There is an acknowledgment of unresolved aspects related to the premises of the claims made.

Ranku
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Does electroweak symmetry breaking involve quantum tunneling, just like GUT symmetry breaking?
 
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What makes you think tunneling has anything at all to do with symmetry breaking?
 
According to inflation theory, GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of fale vacuum through quantum tunneling. So does electroweak symmetry breaking also involve quantum tunneling?
 
Ranku said:
According to inflation theory, GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of fale vacuum through quantum tunneling.

No it doesn't. You can have inflation without GUTs. Or for that matter, without ordinary matter (although in that case it would be hard to tell. Your premise is incorrect, so your question has no answer.
 
Ranku said:
According to inflation theory, GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of fale vacuum through quantum tunneling.

This is not correct. Inflation theory has nothing to do with GUT symmetry breaking; GUT symmetry breaking happens after the end of inflation.

Also, although the original "old inflation" models involved the decay of a false vacuum by tunneling, those models were found not to be viable. Newer inflation models have inflation ending by a "slow roll" transition that involves no tunneling.
 
As noted, the OP question is based on a false premise, so this thread is closed.
 

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