The first part of this book dealt with “invertible symmetries”. Every element of a group has an inverse and this, in some sense, is their defining feature. However, non-invertible symmetries occur in in physics, quantum mechanics, and across all of mathematics. For example, physicists wish to understand irreversible phase transitions — as we cool iron to below its Curie temperature, it transforms itself (irreversibly) into a permanent magnet.

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Non-invertible symmetry

  • Chris Bowman

摘要

The first part of this book dealt with “invertible symmetries”. Every element of a group has an inverse and this, in some sense, is their defining feature. However, non-invertible symmetries occur in in physics, quantum mechanics, and across all of mathematics. For example, physicists wish to understand irreversible phase transitions — as we cool iron to below its Curie temperature, it transforms itself (irreversibly) into a permanent magnet.