Effective string description of confining flux tubes

Abstract

We review the current knowledge about the theoretical foundations of the effective string theory for confining flux tubes and the comparison of the predictions to pure gauge lattice data. A concise presentation of the effective string theory is provided, incorporating recent developments. We summarize the predictions for the spectrum and the profile/width of the flux tube and their comparison to lattice data. The review closes with a short summary of open questions for future research.

Comments: 21 pages, 8 figures, Contribution to IJMPA special issue "Lattice gauge theory beyond QCD"