RIKEN Lunch Seminar

We investigate the impact of the Adler-Bell-Jackiw axial anomaly on the real-time dynamics of gauge theories in the strong field regime. By studying and comparing Abelian gauge theories, such as QED, with non-Abelian systems, we try to clarify the role of topological properties and initial conditions relevant far from equilibrium. We show that the Abelian version of the Chiral Magnetic Effect, which has been predicted in the context of ultra-relativistic heavy ion collisions, can result in non-trivial experimental signatures, which could possibly be observed in future high-intensity laser experiments. Further I will report on recent investigations of chiral production mechanisms in strong non-Abelian gauge fields and I will discuss the influence of topological objects such as sphalerons, far from equilibrium. Moreover I will show first results of the studies we have undertaken since my arrival here at BNL and discuss how the combination of these studies might be used to shed more light on the role played by anomalies in the early stages of a heavy ion collision.