A Covariant Approach to Fractons: Maxwell Theory of Fractons

Explore a covariant approach to fractons through a generalized Maxwell-like action in this 45-minute talk by Erica Bertolini at the Erwin Schrödinger International Institute for Mathematics and Physics. Discover how the main properties of fracton quasiparticles can be derived using a rank-2 symmetric tensor field and a partially symmetric rank-3 tensor field strength. Examine the connection between fractons and gravitons through a general action invariant under covariant fracton transformation. Learn how the limited mobility of fractons, including charge and dipole conservation, emerges from field equations of motion rather than external constraints. Investigate the introduction of a flat boundary and its physical implications on the model, including the emergence of fractonic edge states. Gain insights into the relationship between fractons and Linearized Gravity (LG) in this comprehensive exploration of fracton theory.