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Low Energy Limit of Banks-Fischler-Shenker-Susskind Quantum Mechanics

Óscar J. C. Dias*

Jorge E. Santos†

  • STAG research centre and Mathematical Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom

  • DAMTP, Centre for Mathematical Sciences, University of Cambridge, Wilberforce Road, Cambridge CB3 0WA, United Kingdom

  • *Contact author: ojcd1r13@soton.ac.uk
  • †Contact author: jss55@cam.ac.uk
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Phys. Rev. Lett. 134, 231402 – Published 12 June, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/wws8-m34w

Abstract

We investigate the low energy regime of BFSS quantum mechanics using its holographic dual. We identify three distinct thermodynamic phases (black holes) and analyze their thermodynamic properties extensively, including phase transitions amongst the several phases. While the properties of the canonical ensemble aligns with existing conjectures on BFSS thermodynamics, we uncover intriguing and unexpected behavior in the microcanonical ensemble. Specifically, for sufficiently low energies, we observe the dominance of the localized phase. Surprisingly, we also identify an energy range where the non-uniform phase becomes dominant. The transition between these phases is mediated by a Kol-type topology-changing phenomenon.

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Outline

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Phys. Rev. Lett. 134, 231402– Published 12 June, 2025
  • Received 3 October 2024
  • Revised 3 April 2025
  • Accepted 28 May 2025
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