Breakdown of conformal invariance at strongly random critical points

M. B. Hastings, Shivaji Lal Sondhi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

We consider the breakdown of conformal and scale invariance in random systems with strongly random critical points. Extending previous results on one-dimensional systems, we provide an example of a three-dimensional system that has a strongly random critical point. The average correlation functions of this system demonstrate a breakdown of conformal invariance, while the typical correlation functions demonstrate a breakdown of scale invariance. The breakdown of conformal invariance is due to the vanishing of the correlation functions at the infinite disorder fixed point, causing the critical correlation functions to be controlled by a dangerously irrelevant operator describing the approach to the fixed point. We relate the computation of average correlation functions to a problem of persistence in the renormalization group flow.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalPhysical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Volume64
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Breakdown of conformal invariance at strongly random critical points'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this