Free Field Representation of Quantum Affine Algebra $U_q\widehat{sl_2}$ and Form Factors in Higher Spin XXZ Model

Abstract

We consider the spin $k/2$ XXZ model in the antiferomagnetic regime using the free field realization of the quantum affine algebra $\uqa$ of level $k$. We give a free field realization of the type II $q$-vertex operator, which describes creation and annihilation of physical particles in the model. By taking a trace of the type I and the type II $q$-vertex operators over the irreducible highest weight representation of $\uqa$, we also derive an integral formula for form factors in this model. Investigating the structure of poles, we obtain a residue formula for form factors, which is a lattice analog of the higher spin extension of the Smirnov's formula in the massive integrable quantum field theory. This result as well as the quantum deformation of the Knizhnik-Zamolodchikov equation for form factors shows a deep connection in the mathematical structure of the integrable lattice models and the massive integrable quantum field theory.