The First Order Signal in Pure U(1) Gauge Theory May be Fake

Abstract

We study the deconfinement phase transition of compact $U(1)$ pure lattice gauge theory with the Wilson action on {\em closed topology} lattices. In contrast to studies of compact QED on {\em hypercubic lattices with periodic boundary conditions}, we find no metastability signal at the phase transition on the lattices with the topology of a sphere. Thus the determination of the order of this phase transition has to be reconsidered. We argue that different properties of closed monopole loops on these topological inequivalent lattices might be responsible for the effect.