Propagator in 2D Euclidean space

In summary, the conversation discusses a scalar theory formulated in two-dimensional Euclidean space-time, with the goal of determining the equations of motion for the field and computing the propagator. The Lagrangian density for this theory is given and the Euler-Lagrange equations are used to find the equations of motion for the field. The integral for the propagator is then discussed, with the suggestion to use the residue theorem to solve it. The use of the residue theorem is further explained and it is recommended to check other sources for a clearer explanation.
  • #1
constantinou1
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0

Homework Statement


Consider the following scalar theory formulated in two-dimensional Euclidean space-time;
S=∫d2x ½(∂μφ∂μφ + m2φ2) ,

a) Determine the equations of motion for the field φ.

b) Compute the propagator;

G(x,y) = ∫d2k/(2π)2 eik(x-y)G(k).

Homework Equations


Euler-Lagrange equations for the field φ is;
∂L/∂φ - ∂μ(∂L/∂(∂μφ) = 0 .​

2. The attempt at a solution
I can solve (a) fine, but its the integral that confuses me.

1.(a)
Well Euclidean space-time has the particular metric gμν = diag{1,1,1,1}, and the integrand in equation S yields the Lagrangian density L, whereby;
L=½(∂μφ∂μφ + m2φ2) .​
By then using the Euler-Lagrange equations for the field φ, we find;
μμφ - m2φ = 0,
∴ (∂μμ - m2) ⋅ φ = 0 .​

2.(a)
Since we are dealing with Euclidean space-time, then;
pμpμ = |p0|2 + |pi|2 = m2 + |p|2

The general idea is then to use G(k) = 1/(m2 + |k|2), so that;
G(x,y) = ∫d2k/(2π)2 eik(x-y)/(m2 + |k|2),​
and then compute the integral. But how can I possibly solve this integral?

Also, when its written d2k for a Fourier transform, it means dkx.dky right, not integrate twice over dk.dk.

Any pointers or assistance on how to solve this problem is greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
The normal way to approach this type of integral is to do the ##p^0## integration by continuing to the complex plane and using the residue theorem. For instance, in Lorentzian 4d, there is an outline at eq. (2.95) of http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/user/tong/qft/two.pdf. In your case, you are in Euclidean signature, so you need to look closely at the numerator to decide how you have to close the contour to see which pole should contribute the reside. It is possible that this use of the residue theorem is explained more clearly in your own text or notes, so you should consider checking those sources as well.
 

Related to Propagator in 2D Euclidean space

1. What is a propagator in 2D Euclidean space?

A propagator in 2D Euclidean space is a mathematical function used to describe the evolution of a quantum system in two-dimensional space. It represents the probability amplitude for a particle to move from one point to another in a given amount of time.

2. How is a propagator calculated in 2D Euclidean space?

The propagator in 2D Euclidean space is calculated using the Feynman path integral, which takes into account all possible paths a particle could take between two points. This involves integrating over all possible positions of the particle at different points in time.

3. What is the significance of the propagator in 2D Euclidean space?

The propagator in 2D Euclidean space is an important tool in quantum mechanics, as it allows us to calculate the probabilities of different outcomes for a quantum system. It also helps us understand the behavior of particles in two-dimensional space and can be used to make predictions about their future motion.

4. Can a propagator in 2D Euclidean space be used for higher dimensions?

Yes, the concept of a propagator can be extended to higher dimensions, such as 3D or even higher. However, the calculations become more complex as the number of dimensions increases, making it more challenging to solve analytically.

5. How is the propagator related to the Green's function in 2D Euclidean space?

The propagator in 2D Euclidean space is closely related to the Green's function, which is a mathematical tool used to solve differential equations. In fact, the propagator can be seen as a special case of the Green's function, specifically for the Schrödinger equation in two dimensions.

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