Matrix Model Partition Functions Research Articles

Matrix model partition function by a single constraint

In the recent study of Virasoro action on characters, we discovered that it gets especially simple for peculiar linear combinations of the Virasoro operators: particular harmonics of {hat{w}}-operators. In this letter, we demonstrate that even more is true: a singlew-constraint is sufficient to uniquely specify the partition functions provided one assumes that it is a power series in time-variables. This substitutes the previous specifications in terms of two requirements: either a string equation imposed on the KP/Toda tau -function or a pair of Virasoro generators. This mysterious single-entry definition holds for a variety of theories, including Hermitian and complex matrix models, and also matrix models with external matrix: the unitary and cubic Kontsevich models. In these cases, it is equivalent to W-representation and is closely related to super integrability. However, a similar single equation that completely determines the partition function exists also in the case of the generalized Kontsevich model (GKM) with potential of higher degree, when the constraint algebra is a larger W-algebra, and neither W-representation, nor superintegrability are understood well enough.

Symmetric polynomials, generalized Jacobi-Trudi identities and τ-functions

An element [Φ]∈GrnH+,F of the Grassmannian of n-dimensional subspaces of the Hardy space H+=H2, extended over the field F = C(x1, …, xn), may be associated to any polynomial basis ϕ = {ϕ0, ϕ1, ⋯ } for C(x). The Plücker coordinates Sλ,nϕ(x1,…,xn) of [Φ], labeled by partitions λ, provide an analog of Jacobi’s bi-alternant formula, defining a generalization of Schur polynomials. Applying the recursion relations satisfied by the polynomial system ϕ to the analog {hi(0)} of the complete symmetric functions generates a doubly infinite matrix hi(j) of symmetric polynomials that determine an element [H]∈Grn(H+,F). This is shown to coincide with [Φ], implying a set of generalized Jacobi identities, extending a result obtained by Sergeev and Veselov [Moscow Math. J. 14, 161–168 (2014)] for the case of orthogonal polynomials. The symmetric polynomials Sλ,nϕ(x1,…,xn) are shown to be KP (Kadomtsev-Petviashvili) τ-functions in terms of the power sums [x] of the xa’s, viewed as KP flow variables. A fermionic operator representation is derived for these, as well as for the infinite sums ∑λSλ,nϕ([x])Sλ,nθ(t) associated to any pair of polynomial bases (ϕ, θ), which are shown to be 2D Toda lattice τ-functions. A number of applications are given, including classical group character expansions, matrix model partition functions, and generators for random processes.

Note on a duality of topological branes

We show a duality of branes in the topological B-model by inserting two kinds of the non-compact branes simultaneously. We explicitly derive the integral formula for the matrix model partition function describing this situation, which correspondingly includes both of the characteristic polynomial and the external source. We show that these two descriptions are dual to each other through the Fourier transformation, and the brane partition function satisfies integrable equations in one and two dimensions.

Partition functions and the continuum limit in Penner matrix models

We present an implementation of the method of orthogonal polynomials which is particularly suitable to study the partition functions of Penner random matrix models, to obtain their explicit forms in the exactly solvable cases, and to determine the coefficients of their perturbative expansions in the continuum limit. The method relies on identities satisfied by the resolvent of the Jacobi matrix in the three-term recursion relation of the associated families of orthogonal polynomials. These identities lead to a convenient formulation of the string equations. As an application, we show that in the continuum limit the free energy of certain exactly solvable models like the linear and double Penner models can be written as a sum of Gaussian contributions plus linear terms. To illustrate the one-cut case we discuss the linear, double and cubic Penner models, and for the two-cut case we discuss theoretically and numerically the existence of a double-branch structure of the free energy for the Gaussian Penner model.

Faces of matrix models

Partition functions of eigenvalue matrix models possess a number of very different descriptions: as matrix integrals, as solutions to linear and non-linear equations, as tau-functions of integrable hierarchies and as special-geometry prepotentials, as result of the action of W-operators and of various recursions on elementary input data, as gluing of certain elementary building blocks. All this explains the central role of such matrix models in modern mathematical physics: they provide the basic "special functions" to express the answers and relations between them, and they serve as a dream model of what one should try to achieve in any other field.

Interplay between MacDonald and Hall-Littlewood expansions of extended torus superpolynomials

In [1] extended superpolynomials were introduced for the torus links T [m, mk + r], which are functions on the entire space of time variables and, at expense of reducing the topological invariance, possess additional algebraic properties, resembling those of the matrix model partition functions and the KP/Toda tau-functions. Not surprisingly, being a suitable extension it actually allows one to calculate the superpolynomials. These functions are defined as expansions into MacDonald polynomials, and their dependence on k is entirely captured by the action of the cut-and-join operator, like in the HOMFLY case. We suggest a simple description of the coefficients in these character expansions, by expanding the initial (at k = 0) conditions for the k-evolution into the new auxiliary basis, this time provided by the Hall-Littlewood polynomials, which, hence, play a role in the description of the dual m-evolution. For illustration we list manifest expressions for a few first series, mk ± 1, mk ± 2, mk ± 3, mk ± 4. Actually all formulas were explicitly tested up to m = 17 strands in the braid.

β-deformed matrix model and Nekrasov partition function

We study Penner type matrix models in relation with the Nekrasov partition function of four dimensional \mathcal{N}=2, SU(2) supersymmetric gauge theories with N_F=2,3 and 4. By evaluating the resolvent using the loop equation for general \beta, we explicitly construct the first half-genus correction to the free energy and demonstrate the result coincides with the corresponding Nekrasov partition function with general \Omega-background, including higher instanton contributions after modifying the relation of the Coulomb branch parameter with the filling fraction. Our approach complements the proof using the Selberg integrals directly which is useful to find the contribution in the series of instanton numbers for a given deformation parameter.

BGWM as second constituent of complex matrix model

Earlier we explained that partition functions of various matrix models can be constructed from that of the cubic Kontsevich model, which, therefore, becomes a basic elementary building block in "M-theory" of matrix models. However, the less topical complex matrix model appeared to be an exception: its decomposition involved not only the Kontsevich tau-function but also another constituent, which we now identify as the Brezin-Gross-Witten (BGW) partition function. The BGW tau-function can be represented either as a generating function of all unitary-matrix integrals or as a Kontsevich-Penner model with potential 1/X (instead of X^3 in the cubic Kontsevich model).

Quiver matrix model and topological partition function in six dimensions

We consider a topological quiver matrix model which is expected to give a dual description of the instanton dynamics of topological U(N) gauge theory on D6 branes. The model is a higher dimensional analogue of the ADHM matrix model that leads to Nekrasov's partition function. The fixed points of the toric action on the moduli space are labeled by colored plane partitions. Assuming the localization theorem, we compute the partition function as an equivariant index. It turns out that the partition function does not depend on the vacuum expectation values of Higgs fields that break U(N) symmetry to U(1)^N at low energy. We conjecture a general formula of the partition function, which reduces to a power of the MacMahon function, if we impose the Calabi-Yau condition. For non Calabi-Yau case we prove the conjecture up to the third order in the instanton expansion.

Generation of matrix models by Ŵ-operators

We show that partition functions of various matrix models can be obtained by acting on elementary functions with exponents of operators. A number of illustrations is given, including the Gaussian Hermitian matrix model, Hermitian model in external field and the Hurwitz-Kontsevitch model, for which we suggest an elegant matrix-model representation. In all these examples, the relevant operators belong to the (3) algebra.

Dynamical Gauged S-Duality Spontaneous Breakdown

Inspired by Yoneya's recent work on D-brane field theory, we present the constructive definition of this theory as a new dual model based on the quantization of non-perturbative string gauged S-dualities and its spontaneous breakdown. Our model is determined by one BRST quantization condition. Here, we provide some testable conjectures, for example, that the partition function of bosonic part of IIB matrix model and string partition functions of various interactions including gravity are realized by the physical state and its Goldstone modes.

Moment determinants as isomonodromic tau functions

We consider a wide class of determinants whose entries are moments of the so-called semiclassical functionals and we show that they are tau functions for an appropriate isomonodromic family which depends on the parameters of the symbols for the functionals. This shows that the vanishing of the tau function for those systems is the obstruction to the solvability of a Riemann–Hilbert problem associated with certain classes of (multiple) orthogonal polynomials. The determinants include Hankel, Toeplitz and shifted-Toeplitz determinants as well as determinants of bimoment functionals and the determinants arising in the study of multiple orthogonality. Some of these determinants also appear as partition functions of random matrix models, including an instance of a two-matrix model.

Instantons and merons in matrix models

Various branches of matrix model partition functions can be represented as intertwined products of universal elementary constituents: Gaussian partition functions Z G and Kontsevich τ -functions Z K . In physical terms, this decomposition is the matrix model version of multi-instanton and multi-meron configurations in Yang–Mills theories. Technically, decomposition formulas are related to the representation theory of algebras of Krichever–Novikov type on families of spectral curves with additional Seiberg–Witten structure. Representations of these algebras are encoded in terms of “the global partition functions”. They interpolate between Z G and Z K , associated with different singularities on spectral Riemann surfaces. This construction is nothing but M -theory-like unification of various matrix models with explicit and representative realization of dualities.

Partition functions of reduced matrix models with classical gauge groups

We evaluate partition functions of matrix models which are given by topologically twisted and dimensionally reduced actions of d = 4 N = 1 super-Yang–Mills theories with classical (semi-)simple gauge groups, SO ( 2 N ) , SO ( 2 N + 1 ) and USp ( 2 N ) . The integrals reduce to those over the maximal tori by semi-classical approximation which is exact in reduced models. We carry out residue calculus by developing a diagrammatic method, in which the action of the Weyl groups and therefore counting of multiplicities are explained obviously.

UNIFIED DESCRIPTION OF CORRELATORS IN NON-GAUSSIAN PHASES OF HERMITIAN MATRIX MODEL

Following the program, proposed in hep-th/0310113, of systematizing known properties of matrix model partition functions (defined as solutions to the Virasoro-like sets of linear differential equations), we proceed to consideration of non-Gaussian phases of the Hermitian one-matrix model. A unified approach is proposed for description of "connected correlators" in the form of the phase-independent "check-operators" acting on the small space of T-variables (which parametrize the polynomial W(z)). With appropriate definitions and ordering prescriptions, the multidensity check-operators look very similar to the Gaussian case (however, a reliable proof of suggested explicit expressions in all loops is not yet available, only certain consistency checks are performed).

Hypergeometric Functions as Infinite-Soliton Tau Functions

It is known that resonant multisoliton solutions depend on higher times and a set of parameters (integrals of motion). We show that soliton tau functions of the Toda lattice (and of the multicomponent Toda lattice) are tau functions of a dual hierarchy, where the higher times and the parameters (integrals of motion) exchange roles. The multisoliton solutions turn out to be rational solutions of the dual hierarchy, and the infinite-soliton tau functions turn out to be hypergeometric-type tau functions of the dual hierarchy. The variables in the dual hierarchies exchange roles. Soliton momenta are related to the Frobenius coordinates of partitions in the decomposition of rational solutions with respect to Schur functions. As an example, we consider partition functions of matrix models: their perturbation series is, on one hand, a hypergeometric tau function and, on the other hand, can be interpreted as an infinite-soliton solution.

Partition functions of matrix models as the first special functions of string theory: Finite Hermitian one-matrix model

Although matrix model partition functions do not exhaust the entire set of τ-functions relevant for string theory, they are elementary blocks for constructing many other τ-functions and seem to capture the fundamental nature of quantum gravity an string theory properly. We propose taking matrix model partition functions as new special functions. This means that they should be investigated and represented in some standard form without reference to particular applications. At the same time, the tables and lists of properties should be sufficiently full to exclude unexpected peculiarities appearing in new applications. Accomplishing this task requires considerable effort, and this paper is only a first step in this direction. We restrict our consideration to the finite Hermitian one-matrix model an concentrate mostly on its phase and branch structure that arises when the partition function is considered as a D-module. We discuss the role of the CIV-DV prepotential (which generates a certain basis in the linear space of solutions of the Virasoro constraints, although an understanding of why and how this basis is distinguished is lacking) an evaluate several first multiloop correlators, which generalize the semicircular distribution to the case of multitrace and nonplanar correlators.

PARTITION FUNCTIONS OF MATRIX MODELS: FIRST SPECIAL FUNCTIONS OF STRING THEORY

Even though matrix model partition functions do not exhaust the entire set of τ-functions relevant for string theory, they seem to be elementary building blocks for many others and they seem to properly capture the fundamental symplicial nature of quantum gravity and string theory. We propose to consider matrix model partition functions as new special functions. Here we restrict our consideration to the finite-size Hermitian 1-matrix model and concentrate mostly on its phase/branch structure arising when the partition function is considered as a D-module. We discuss the role of the CIV–DV prepotential (as generating a possible basis in the linear space of solutions to the Virasoro constraints, but with a lack of understanding of why and how this basis is distinguished).

On matrix model partition functions for QCD with chemical potential

Partition functions of two different matrix models for QCD with chemical potential are computed for an arbitrary number of quark and complex conjugate anti-quark flavors. In the large- N limit of weak nonhermiticity complete agreement is found between the two models. This supports the universality of such fermionic partition functions, that is of products of characteristic polynomials in the complex plane. In the strong nonhermiticity limit agreement is found for an equal number of quark and conjugate flavours. For a general flavor content the equality of partition functions holds only for small chemical potential. The chiral phase transition is analyzed for an arbitrary number of quarks, where the free energy presents a discontinuity of first order at a critical chemical potential. In the case of nondegenerate flavors there is first order phase transition for each separate mass scale.

The <i>C</i>-deformation of gluino and non-planar diagrams

We consider a deformation of N = 1 supersymmetric gauge theories in four dimensions, which we call the C-deformation, where the gluino field satisfies a Clifford-like algebra dictated by a self-dual two-form, instead of the standard Grassmannian algebra. The superpotential of the deformed gauge theory is computed by the full partition function of an associated matrix model (or more generally a bosonic gauge theory), including non-planar diagrams. In this identification, the strength of the two-form controls the genus expansion of the matrix model partition function. For the case of pure N = 1 Yang-Mills this deformation leads to the identification of the all genus partition function of c non-critical bosonic string at self-dual radius as the glueball superpotential. Though the C-deformation violates Lorentz invariance, the deformed F-terms are Lorentz invariant and the Lorentz violation is screened in the IR.