Prof. David Sherrington FRS

Abstract:

Using numerical self-consistent solutions of a sequence of finite replica symmetry breakings (RSB) and Wilson's renormalization group but with the number of RSB steps playing a role of decimation scales, we report evidence for a nontrivial T-->0 limit of the Parisi order function q(x) for the Sherrington-Kirkpatrick spin glass. Supported by scaling in RSB space, the fixed point order function is conjectured to be q*(a)=sqrt[pi]/2 a/xi erf(xi/a) on 0 a at T =0 and xi approximately 1.13+/-0.01. Xi plays the role of a correlation length in a-space. q*(a) may be viewed as the solution of an effective 1D field theory.

Abstract:

We show that applying simple dynamical rules to Baxter's eight-vertex model leads to a system which resembles a glass-forming liquid. There are analogies with liquid, supercooled liquid, glassy, and crystalline states. The disordered phases exhibit strong dynamical heterogeneity at low temperatures, which may be described in terms of an emergent mobility field. Their dynamics are well described by a simple model with trivial thermodynamics, but an emergent kinetic constraint. We show that the (second order) thermodynamic transition to the ordered phase may be interpreted in terms of confinement of the excitations in the mobility field. We also describe the aging of disordered states toward the ordered phase, in terms of simple rate equations.