Degenerate fermion and Wilson loops in 1 + 1 dimensions

Abstract

We investigate the effect of finite fermion density on symmetry breaking by Wilson loops in (1 + 1) dimensions. We find the breaking and restoration of symmetry at finite density in models with SU(2) and SU(3) gauge symmetries, in the presence of the adjoint fermions. The transition can occur at a finite density of fermions, regardless of the periodic or antiperiodic boundary condition of the fermion field; this is in contrast to the finite-temperature case examined by Ho and Hosotani (IASSNS-HEP preprint 88/48) where the boundary condition of fractional twist is essential to the occurrence of the phase transition.