Fate of $Z_2$ Symmetric Scalar Field

Abstract

The evolution of a coherently oscillating scalar field with $Z_2$ symmetry is studied in detail. We calculate the dissipation rate of the scalar field based on the closed time path formalism. Consequently, it is shown that the energy density of the coherent oscillation can be efficiently dissipated if the coupling constant is larger than the critical value, even though the scalar particle is stable due to the $Z_2$ symmetry.

32 pages, 2 figures; v2: reflect the published version