Efimov physics from the functional renormalization group

Abstract

Few-body physics related to the Efimov effect is discussed using the functional renormalization group method. After a short review of renormalization in its modern formulation we apply this formalism to the description of scattering and bound states in few-body systems of identical bosons and distinguishable fermions with two and three components. The Efimov effect leads to a limit cycle in the renormalization group flow. Recently measured three-body loss rates in an ultracold Fermi gas ${}^6$Li atoms are explained within this framework. We also discuss briefly the relation to the many-body physics of the BCS-BEC crossover for two-component fermions and the formation of a trion phase for the case of three species.

28 pages, 13 figures, invited contribution to a special issue of "Few-Body Systems" devoted to Efimov physics, published version