Comments on higher-derivative corrections in the AdS/CFT duality

Abstract

We point out that some works on higher-derivative corrections in the AdS/CFT duality use inappropriate "AdS/CFT dictionary." We illustrate the problem using a class of holographic superconductors in the Gauss-Bonnet black hole background. We also point out another problem in previous works. These modifications can change the qualitative behavior of physical quantities such as the spontaneous condensate. Whether the condensate increases or decreases under higher-derivative corrections depends on the system one considers, and there is no universality in this sense.