arXiv:1505.07007 · Journal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment

A new look at the collapse of two-dimensional polymers

Éric Vernier, Jesper Lykke Jacobsen, Hubert Saleur

Published Sep 8, 2015• 31 citations

Abstract

We study the collapse of two-dimensional polymers, via an O($n$) model on the square lattice that allows for dilution, bending rigidity and short-range monomer attractions. This model contains two candidates for the theta point, $Θ_{\rm BN}$ and $Θ_{\rm DS}$, both exactly solvable. The relative stability of these points, and the question of which one describes the `generic' theta point, have been the source of a long-standing debate. Moreover, the analytically predicted exponents of $Θ_{\rm BN}$ have never been convincingly observed in numerical simulations. In the present paper, we shed a new light on this confusing situation. We show in particular that the continuum limit of $Θ_{\rm BN}$ is an unusual conformal field theory, made in fact of a simple dense polymer decorated with {\sl non-compact degrees of freedom}. This implies in particular that the critical exponents take continuous rather than discrete values, and that corrections to scaling lead to an unusual integral form. Furthermore, discrete states may emerge from the continuum, but the latter are only normalizable---and hence observable---for appropriate values of the model's parameters. We check these findings numerically. We also probe the non-compact degrees of freedom in various ways, and establish that they are related to fluctuations of the density of monomers. Finally, we construct a field theoretic model of the vicinity of $Θ_{\rm BN}$ and examine the flow along the multicritical line between $Θ_{\rm BN}$ and $Θ_{\rm DS}$.

DOI: 10.1088/1742-5468/2015/09/p09001

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What is the Generic Critical Behaviour for Polymer Collapse in 2D

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Numerical simulation of a lattice polymer model at its integrable point

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arXiv:1505.07007 · Journal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment

A new look at the collapse of two-dimensional polymers

Éric Vernier, Jesper Lykke Jacobsen, Hubert Saleur

Published Sep 8, 2015• 31 citations

arXiv HTML PDF

Abstract

We study the collapse of two-dimensional polymers, via an O(

n

) model on the square lattice that allows for dilution, bending rigidity and short-range monomer attractions. This model contains two candidates for the theta point,

Θ_{\rm BN}

and

Θ_{\rm DS}

, both exactly solvable. The relative stability of these points, and the question of which one describes the `generic' theta point, have been the source of a long-standing debate. Moreover, the analytically predicted exponents of

Θ_{\rm BN}

have never been convincingly observed in numerical simulations. In the present paper, we shed a new light on this confusing situation. We show in particular that the continuum limit of

Θ_{\rm BN}

is an unusual conformal field theory, made in fact of a simple dense polymer decorated with {\sl non-compact degrees of freedom}. This implies in particular that the critical exponents take continuous rather than discrete values, and that corrections to scaling lead to an unusual integral form. Furthermore, discrete states may emerge from the continuum, but the latter are only normalizable---and hence observable---for appropriate values of the model's parameters. We check these findings numerically. We also probe the non-compact degrees of freedom in various ways, and establish that they are related to fluctuations of the density of monomers. Finally, we construct a field theoretic model of the vicinity of

Θ_{\rm BN}

and examine the flow along the multicritical line between

Θ_{\rm BN}

and

Θ_{\rm DS}

DOI: 10.1088/1742-5468/2015/09/p09001

Related papers

What is the Generic Critical Behaviour for Polymer Collapse in 2D

Adam Nahum

The nature of the theta point for a polymer in two dimensions has long been debated, with a variety of candidates put forward for the critical exponents. This includes those derived by Duplantier and Saleur (DS) for an exactly solvable model. We use a representation of the problem in terms of the $CP^{N-1}$ sigma model in the limit $N \rightarrow 1$ to determine the stability of this critical point. First we prove that the DS critical exponents are robust so long as the polymer does not cross itself: they can arise in a generic lattice model, and do not require fine tuning. However there is an apparent paradox: two different lattice models, apparently both in the DS universality class, show different numbers of relevant perturbations, apparently leading to contradictory conclusions about the stability of the DS exponents. We explain this in terms of subtle differences between the two models, one of which is fine-tuned. Next, we allow polymer crossings, as appropriate e.g. to the quasi-2D case. This introduces an additional independent relevant perturbation, so we do not expect the DS exponents to apply: the exponents in the case with crossings will be those of the generic tricritical $O(n)$ model at $n=0$ , and different to the case without crossings. We also discuss interesting features of the operator content of the $CP^{N-1}$ model. Simple geometrical arguments show that two operators in this field theory, with very different symmetry properties, have the same scaling dimension for any value of $N$ . Also we argue that for any $N$ there is a marginal parity-odd operator which is related to the winding angle.The nature of the theta point for a polymer in two dimensions has long been debated, with a variety of candidates put forward for the critical exponents. This includes those derived by Duplantier and Saleur (DS) for an exactly solvable model. We use a representation of the problem in terms of the $CP^{N-1}$ sigma model in the limit $N \rightarrow 1$ to determine the stability of this critical point. First we prove that the DS critical exponents are robust so long as the polymer does not cross itself: they can arise in a generic lattice model, and do not require fine tuning. However there is an apparent paradox: two different lattice models, apparently both in the DS universality class, show different numbers of relevant perturbations, apparently leading to contradictory conclusions about the stability of the DS exponents. We explain this in terms of subtle differences between the two models, one of which is fine-tuned. Next, we allow polymer crossings, as appropriate e.g. to the quasi-2D case. This introduces an additional independent relevant perturbation, so we do not expect the DS exponents to apply: the exponents in the case with crossings will be those of the generic tricritical $O(n)$ model at $n=0$, and different to the case without crossings. We also discuss interesting features of the operator content of the $CP^{N-1}$ model. Simple geometrical arguments show that two operators in this field theory, with very different symmetry properties, have the same scaling dimension for any value of $N$. Also we argue that for any $N$ there is a marginal parity-odd operator which is related to the winding angle.

Oct 30, 20150 citations

Universality class of the two-dimensional polymer collapse transition

Adam Nahum

The nature of the θ point for a polymer in two dimensions has long been debated, with a variety of candidates put forward for the critical exponents. This includes those derived by Duplantier and Saleur for an exactly solvable model. We use a representation of the problem via the CP^{N-1}σ model in the limit N→1 to determine the stability of this critical point. First we prove that the Duplantier-Saleur (DS) critical exponents are robust, so long as the polymer does not cross itself: They can arise in a generic lattice model and do not require fine-tuning. This resolves a longstanding theoretical question. We also address an apparent paradox: Two different lattice models, apparently both in the DS universality class, show different numbers of relevant perturbations, apparently leading to contradictory conclusions about the stability of the DS exponents. We explain this in terms of subtle differences between the two models, one of which is fine-tuned (and not strictly in the DS universality class). Next we allow the polymer to cross itself, as appropriate, e.g., to the quasi-two-dimensional case. This introduces an additional independent relevant perturbation, so we do not expect the DS exponents to apply. The exponents in the case with crossings will be those of the generic tricritical O(n) model at n=0 and different from the case without crossings. We also discuss interesting features of the operator content of the CP^{N-1} model. Simple geometrical arguments show that two operators in this field theory, with very different symmetry properties, have the same scaling dimension for any value of N (or, equivalently, any value of the loop fugacity). Also we argue that for any value of N the CP^{N-1} model has a marginal odd-parity operator that is related to the winding angle.The nature of the θ point for a polymer in two dimensions has long been debated, with a variety of candidates put forward for the critical exponents. This includes those derived by Duplantier and Saleur for an exactly solvable model. We use a representation of the problem via the CP^{N-1}σ model in the limit N→1 to determine the stability of this critical point. First we prove that the Duplantier-Saleur (DS) critical exponents are robust, so long as the polymer does not cross itself: They can arise in a generic lattice model and do not require fine-tuning. This resolves a longstanding theoretical question. We also address an apparent paradox: Two different lattice models, apparently both in the DS universality class, show different numbers of relevant perturbations, apparently leading to contradictory conclusions about the stability of the DS exponents. We explain this in terms of subtle differences between the two models, one of which is fine-tuned (and not strictly in the DS universality class). Next we allow the polymer to cross itself, as appropriate, e.g., to the quasi-two-dimensional case. This introduces an additional independent relevant perturbation, so we do not expect the DS exponents to apply. The exponents in the case with crossings will be those of the generic tricritical O(n) model at n=0 and different from the case without crossings. We also discuss interesting features of the operator content of the CP^{N-1} model. Simple geometrical arguments show that two operators in this field theory, with very different symmetry properties, have the same scaling dimension for any value of N (or, equivalently, any value of the loop fugacity). Also we argue that for any value of N the CP^{N-1} model has a marginal odd-parity operator that is related to the winding angle.

arXiv:1510.09223Physical review. EMay 6, 201612 citations

Numerical simulation of a lattice polymer model at its integrable point

Andrea Bedini, Aleksander L. Owczarek, Thomas Prellberg

We revisit an integrable lattice model of polymer collapse using numerical simulations. This model was first studied by Blöte and Nienhuis (1989 J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 22 1415) and it describes polymers with some attraction, providing thus a model for the polymer collapse transition. At a particular set of Boltzmann weights the model is integrable and the exponents ν = 12/23 ≈ 0.522 and γ = 53/46 ≈ 1.152 have been computed via identification of the scaling dimensions x t = 1/12 and x h = −5/48. We directly investigate the polymer scaling exponents via Monte Carlo simulations using the pruned-enriched Rosenbluth method algorithm. By simulating this polymer model for walks up to length 4096 we find ν = 0.576(6) and γ = 1.045(5), which are clearly different from the predicted values. Our estimate for the exponent ν is compatible with the known θ-point value of 4/7 and in agreement with very recent numerical evaluation by Foster and Pinettes (2012 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 45 505003).We revisit an integrable lattice model of polymer collapse using numerical simulations. This model was first studied by Blöte and Nienhuis (1989 J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 22 1415) and it describes polymers with some attraction, providing thus a model for the polymer collapse transition. At a particular set of Boltzmann weights the model is integrable and the exponents ν = 12/23 ≈ 0.522 and γ = 53/46 ≈ 1.152 have been computed via identification of the scaling dimensions x t = 1/12 and x h = −5/48. We directly investigate the polymer scaling exponents via Monte Carlo simulations using the pruned-enriched Rosenbluth method algorithm. By simulating this polymer model for walks up to length 4096 we find ν = 0.576(6) and γ = 1.045(5), which are clearly different from the predicted values. Our estimate for the exponent ν is compatible with the known θ-point value of 4/7 and in agreement with very recent numerical evaluation by Foster and Pinettes (2012 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 45 505003).

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Critical properties of a dilute O(n) model on the kagome lattice

Biao Li, Wenan Guo, Henk W. J. Blöte

A critical dilute O(n) model on the kagome lattice is investigated analytically and numerically. We employ a number of exact equivalences which, in a few steps, link the critical O(n) spin model on the kagome lattice to the exactly solvable critical q-state Potts model on the honeycomb lattice with q=(n+1)2. The intermediate steps involve the random-cluster model on the honeycomb lattice and a fully packed loop model with loop weight n'=sqrt(q) and a dilute loop model with loop weight n , both on the kagome lattice. This mapping enables the determination of a branch of critical points of the dilute O(n) model, as well as some of its critical properties. These properties differ from those of the generic O(n) critical points. For n=0, our model reproduces the known universal properties of the theta point describing the collapse of a polymer. For n not equal 0 it displays a line of multicritical points, with the same universal behavior as a branch of critical points that was found earlier in a dilute O(n) model on the square lattice. These findings are supported by a finite-size-scaling analysis in combination with transfer-matrix calculations.A critical dilute O(n) model on the kagome lattice is investigated analytically and numerically. We employ a number of exact equivalences which, in a few steps, link the critical O(n) spin model on the kagome lattice to the exactly solvable critical q-state Potts model on the honeycomb lattice with q=(n+1)2. The intermediate steps involve the random-cluster model on the honeycomb lattice and a fully packed loop model with loop weight n'=sqrt(q) and a dilute loop model with loop weight n , both on the kagome lattice. This mapping enables the determination of a branch of critical points of the dilute O(n) model, as well as some of its critical properties. These properties differ from those of the generic O(n) critical points. For n=0, our model reproduces the known universal properties of the theta point describing the collapse of a polymer. For n not equal 0 it displays a line of multicritical points, with the same universal behavior as a branch of critical points that was found earlier in a dilute O(n) model on the square lattice. These findings are supported by a finite-size-scaling analysis in combination with transfer-matrix calculations.

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Lattice regularisation of a non-compact boundary conformal field theory

Niall Robertson, Jesper Lykke Jacobsen, Hubert Saleur

Abstract Non-compact Conformal Field Theories (CFTs) are central to several aspects of string theory and condensed matter physics. They are characterised, in particular, by the appearance of a continuum of conformal dimensions. Surprisingly, such CFTs have been identified as the continuum limits of lattice models with a finite number of degrees of freedom per site. However, results have so far been restricted to the case of periodic boundary conditions, precluding the exploration via lattice models of aspects of non-compact boundary CFTs and the corresponding D-brane constructions. The present paper follows a series of previous works on a ℤ2-staggered XXZ spin chain, whose continuum limit is known to be a non-compact CFT related with the Euclidian black hole sigma model. By using the relationship of this spin chain with an integrable ${D}_2^2$ D 2 2 vertex model, we here identify integrable boundary conditions that lead to a continuous spectrum of boundary exponents, and thus correspond to non-compact branes. In the context of the Potts model on a square lattice, they correspond to wired boundary conditions at the physical antiferromagnetic critical point. The relations with the boundary parafermion theories are discussed as well. We are also able to identify a boundary renormalisation group flow from the non-compact boundary conditions to the previously studied compact ones.Abstract Non-compact Conformal Field Theories (CFTs) are central to several aspects of string theory and condensed matter physics. They are characterised, in particular, by the appearance of a continuum of conformal dimensions. Surprisingly, such CFTs have been identified as the continuum limits of lattice models with a finite number of degrees of freedom per site. However, results have so far been restricted to the case of periodic boundary conditions, precluding the exploration via lattice models of aspects of non-compact boundary CFTs and the corresponding D-brane constructions. The present paper follows a series of previous works on a ℤ2-staggered XXZ spin chain, whose continuum limit is known to be a non-compact CFT related with the Euclidian black hole sigma model. By using the relationship of this spin chain with an integrable $$ {D}_2^2 $$ D 2 2 vertex model, we here identify integrable boundary conditions that lead to a continuous spectrum of boundary exponents, and thus correspond to non-compact branes. In the context of the Potts model on a square lattice, they correspond to wired boundary conditions at the physical antiferromagnetic critical point. The relations with the boundary parafermion theories are discussed as well. We are also able to identify a boundary renormalisation group flow from the non-compact boundary conditions to the previously studied compact ones.

arXiv:2012.07757Journal of High Energy PhysicsFeb 1, 202120 citations

Exact exponents for infinitely many new multicritical points

David A. Huse

Andrews, Baxter, and Forrester have recently solved two infinite sequences of models that are generalizations of the Ising and hard-square models and exhibit multicriticality. The nature of these new two-dimensional multicritical points is examined in order to determine what universality classes they may represent. Appropriate order parameters are defined and their critical exponents reported. One infinite sequence of multicritical points are continuous melting transitions of $p\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1$ commensurate ordered phases for all integers $p\ensuremath{\ge}2$. The other sequence appears to consist of "generic" multicritical points terminating lines of $n$ -phase coexistence, again for all integers $n\ensuremath{\ge}2$. The multicritical exponents in this latter sequence coincide with those found by Friedan, Qiu, and Shenker on the basis of assuming conformal invariance and unitarity.Andrews, Baxter, and Forrester have recently solved two infinite sequences of models that are generalizations of the Ising and hard-square models and exhibit multicriticality. The nature of these new two-dimensional multicritical points is examined in order to determine what universality classes they may represent. Appropriate order parameters are defined and their critical exponents reported. One infinite sequence of multicritical points are continuous melting transitions of $p\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1$ commensurate ordered phases for all integers $p\ensuremath{\ge}2$. The other sequence appears to consist of "generic" multicritical points terminating lines of $n$-phase coexistence, again for all integers $n\ensuremath{\ge}2$. The multicritical exponents in this latter sequence coincide with those found by Friedan, Qiu, and Shenker on the basis of assuming conformal invariance and unitarity.

Physical review. B, Condensed matterOct 1, 1984252 citations

We study the collapse of two-dimensional polymers, via an O(

n

) model on the square lattice that allows for dilution, bending rigidity and short-range monomer attractions. This model contains two candidates for the theta point,

Θ_{\rm BN}

and

Θ_{\rm DS}

Θ_{\rm BN}

have never been convincingly observed in numerical simulations. In the present paper, we shed a new light on this confusing situation. We show in particular that the continuum limit of

Θ_{\rm BN}

Θ_{\rm BN}

and examine the flow along the multicritical line between

Θ_{\rm BN}

and

Θ_{\rm DS}

CP^{N-1}

sigma model in the limit

N \rightarrow 1

to determine the stability of this critical point. First we prove that the DS critical exponents are robust so long as the polymer does not cross itself: they can arise in a generic lattice model, and do not require fine tuning. However there is an apparent paradox: two different lattice models, apparently both in the DS universality class, show different numbers of relevant perturbations, apparently leading to contradictory conclusions about the stability of the DS exponents. We explain this in terms of subtle differences between the two models, one of which is fine-tuned. Next, we allow polymer crossings, as appropriate e.g. to the quasi-2D case. This introduces an additional independent relevant perturbation, so we do not expect the DS exponents to apply: the exponents in the case with crossings will be those of the generic tricritical

O(n)

model at

n=0

, and different to the case without crossings. We also discuss interesting features of the operator content of the

CP^{N-1}

model. Simple geometrical arguments show that two operators in this field theory, with very different symmetry properties, have the same scaling dimension for any value of

N

. Also we argue that for any

N

there is a marginal parity-odd operator which is related to the winding angle.

{D}_2^2

D 2 2 vertex model, we here identify integrable boundary conditions that lead to a continuous spectrum of boundary exponents, and thus correspond to non-compact branes. In the context of the Potts model on a square lattice, they correspond to wired boundary conditions at the physical antiferromagnetic critical point. The relations with the boundary parafermion theories are discussed as well. We are also able to identify a boundary renormalisation group flow from the non-compact boundary conditions to the previously studied compact ones.

n

-phase coexistence, again for all integers $n\ensuremath{\ge}2$. The multicritical exponents in this latter sequence coincide with those found by Friedan, Qiu, and Shenker on the basis of assuming conformal invariance and unitarity.