On the energy of topological defect lattices

Abstract

Since the logarithm function is the solution of Poisson's equation in two dimensions, it appears as the Coulomb interaction in two dimensions, the interaction between Abrikosov flux lines in a type II superconductor, or between line defects in elastic media, and so on. Lattices of lines interacting logarithmically are, therefore, a subject of intense research due to their manifold applications. The solution of the Poisson equation for such lattices is known in the form of an infinite sum since the late 1990's. In this article we present an alternative analytical solution, in closed form, in terms of the Jacobi theta function.

Keywords

• topological defect
• cosmic string
• flux line