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Cheshire θ terms, Aharonov-Bohm effects, and axions
Summary
Gongjun Choi (University of Minnesota)
Varian 312
Varian 312
Apr
18
Date(s)
Content
Cheshire θ terms, Aharonov-Bohm effects, and axions We discuss unusual θ terms that can appear in field theories that allow global vortices. These "Cheshire θ terms" induce Aharonov-Bohm effects for some particles that move around vortices. For example, a Cheshire θ term can appear in QCD coupled to an axion and induces Aharonov-Bohm effects for baryons and leptons moving around axion strings. We point out a potential experimental signature left on the spectrum of gravitational waves from axion cosmic string network by the Cheshire θ term.