Exact solutions and zero modes in scalar field theory

Abstract

We provide a set of exact solutions in field theory of scalar fields with $Z_2$ symmetry that involve Jacobi elliptic functions. These solutions have the interesting property to provide massive waves even if one starts from a massless equation. We analyze them classically providing also exact solutions to the corresponding equations for the Green functions needed to completely solve them in a strong coupling limit. This is accomplished using a functional expansion into powers of the current. It is shown that the spontaneous breaking of the $Z_2$ symmetry is due to the existence of a zero mode that persists also in the case of the Higgs mechanism. In this latter case, the zero mode seems to play a role similar to the Goldstone boson in the breaking of a continuous symmetry and so, it should be important at lower momenta as a long range excitation.