What is the difference between real and complex Higgs triplets?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between real and complex Higgs triplets, specifically focusing on hypercharge (Y) values. For a simple Higgs triplet model, Y can be 0, +2, or -2, with Y=0 corresponding to a real triplet and Y=+/- 2 indicating a complex triplet. The key point is that Y changes sign under charge conjugation, leading to the conclusion that particles equal to their own antiparticles represent real fields, while those that differ are associated with complex fields. This distinction holds true even for the electrically neutral member of the triplet.

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  • Understanding of Higgs triplet models
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ehj
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I have read several places that for a simple Higgs triplet model we can have either Y=0, +/- 2 This part I understand, because we have the relation Q=T3+Y/2 and any other Y values would therefore not allow for an electrically neutral Higgs. But what I don't understand is the claim that Y=+/- 2 is a complex triplet while only Y=0 can be real. Can somebody explain this?
 
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Y changes sign under charge conjugation, and a Y=2 triplet would therefore be distinct from its antiparticles. Particles equal to their own antiparticles correspond to a real field, while those that are unequal are associated with a complex field. This would be the case even for the electrically neutral member of the triplet.
 

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