GAUGE FIELD VISUALIZATION

U(1) Lattice Gauge Theory · Wilson Loops · Plaquette Action
U_μ(x) = e^(iA_μ)
S = -β Σ Re[P□]
P□ = U_x U_y U_x† U_y†
⟨W_n⟩ ∝ e^(-σ·Area)
U(1) lattice gauge theory assigns a phase angle to each link. The Wilson plaquette action S = -β Σ cos(F₁₂) drives the system toward ordered/disordered phases. Wilson loops W(n×m) detect confinement: area law signals string tension σ.