Triangle Seminars

Abstract:
Using localization techniques, Pestun has shown how to reduce certain quantum field theory path integrals to finite-dimensional matrix integrals. In this way, the expectation value of certain operators in the gauge theory is equivalent to the expectation value of observables in the associated matrix model. In this talk, Pestun's matrix model is used to compute the expectation value of the circular Wilson loop in N = 2 SuperConformal QCD, in the weak and strong coupling regime. At weak coupling, we define a perturbative scheme that permits to compute the Wilson loop at arbitrary high number of loops. At strong coupling, our computation carries information about the string theory dual of the SuperConformal QCD, that is not known yet. In particular, our results indicate that the string tension in the dual string theory scales as the logarithm of the gauge theory 't Hooft coupling.