Algebraic techniques in 3-cateories of (2+1)D topological defects

Abstract: Topological phases of matter in (2+1)D should naturally form a 3-category, in which k-morphisms represent defects of codimension k. By the cobordism hypothesis, the 3-categories of (2+1)D topological order with a fixed anomaly are each equivalent to the 3-category of fusion categories enriched over a corresponding UMTC. In ongoing work with Fiona Burnell, we introduce algebraic techniques for concrete computations in 3-categories of (2+1)D topological order, including a tunneling approach to the classification of point defects which generalizes the use of braiding to identify anyon types. We then apply these techniques to compute ground state degeneracy and classify low energy excitations in a class of fracton-like (2+1)D topological defect networks.

mathematical physicsalgebraic topologycategory theoryquantum algebra

Audience: researchers in the topic

Topological Quantum Field Theory Club (IST, Lisbon)

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