Electroweak String Configurations with Baryon Number

Abstract

In the context of electroweak strings, the baryon number anomaly equation may be reinterpreted as a conservation law for baryon number minus helicity. Since the helicity is a sum of the link and twist numbers, linked or twisted loops of electroweak string carry baryon number. We evaluate the change in the baryon number obtained by delinking loops of electroweak $Z-$string and show that twisted electroweak string segments may be regarded as extended sphalerons. We also suggest an alternative scenario for electroweak baryogenesis.

Comments: 11 pages, figure available on request. Added discussion of string-sphaleron connection for non-vanishing Weinberg angle and shortened discussion on formation of linked configurations