A pedagogical approach to introducing the honeycomb lattice gauge theory

Abstract A pedagogical approach to introducing the honeycomb lattice gauge theory is presented. Lattice gauge theory, which is an important theory for understanding strongly correlated systems, is a significant topic covered in the quantum field theory course for graduate students. Typically, quantum field theory textbooks introduce lattice gauge theory using the square lattice. However, beginners often find it challenging to grasp such an abstract theory only through the example of the square lattice. In this paper, we introduce lattice gauge theory using an alternative lattice—the honeycomb lattice. By comparing the differences between honeycomb and square lattice gauge theories, we highlight the fundamental principles of lattice gauge theory. This pedagogical approach will assist students in gaining a fresh perspective on grasping lattice gauge theory.