Tree algebras: An algebraic axiomatization of intertwining vertex operators

Abstract

We describe a completely algebraic axiom system for intertwining operators of vertex algebra modules, using algebraic flat connections, thus formulating the concept of a tree algebra. Using the Riemann-Hilbert correspondence, we further prove that a vertex tensor category in the sense of Huang and Lepowsky gives rise to a tree algebra over $\mathbb{C}$. We also show that the chiral WZW model of a simply connected simple compact Lie group gives rise to a tree algebra over $\mathbb{Q}$.