Ising model and \(N=2\) supersymmetric theories (Q1311697)

The spin correlation computation is interpreted as solving a certain cohomological problem and then used to describe \(N = 2\) supersymmetric theories by exploiting the cohomological characterization of vacua in these theories. The topological/anti-topological equations from an earlier work of the authors [Nucl. Phys., B 367, 359-461 (1991)] are reviewed once more and a formal alternative derivation is offered. These equations are then written in appropriate coordinates for making contact with the Ising model. Then a more direct link between the Ising model and the \(N = 2\) theories is made by considering the supersymmetric quantum mechanical Landau-Ginzburg model. Finally the work is used to study certain aspects of the tau function. In this context a generalization of the Ray-Singer torsion is made to the loop space of Kähler manifolds. The related index is essentially fixed by its holomorphic anomaly, which can be computed in terms of the metric on the ground states and the chiral ring.