Role of topological defects in the phase transition of the three-dimensional Heisenberg model

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Abstract
A numerical study of the role of topological point defects in the phase transition of the classical ferromagnetic Heisenberg model in three dimensions strongly suggests that the defects play an essential role in this phase transition. The authors find that the transition from the ordered to the disordered phase is accompanied by a proliferation and unbinding of pairs of oppositely charged defects. If configurations containing defects are not allowed, then the system appears to remain ordered at all temperatures.