On the Ising/tricritical-Ising interface: From $W_3$ symmetry to Rydberg atoms

Abstract

We consider interfaces between critical spin-chains in different universality classes, described in the continuum limit by defect/interface conformal field theory (DCFT/ICFT). We focus on a conformal interface between the Tricritical Ising (TIM) and the Ising CFT exploring the possibility of its experimental realizations in the context of Rydberg atom arrays. Our analysis emphasizes non-invertible symmetries and consistency under modular transformations, and uses defect couplings and the defect spectrum -- including in the case of mixed boundary conditions -- to make sharp experimental predictions. The structure of the observables hinges on a newly discovered pattern of emergent $W_3$ chiral symmetry for the Tricritical-Ising/Ising interface.

arXiv comment6 pages, 6 figures, 4 appendices; v2 Erratum added: the original version misinterpreted the interface as new. Changed title, abstract and text accordingly