Conformal field theory on the plane

Abstract

We review conformal field theory on the plane in the conformal bootstrap approach. We introduce the main ideas of the bootstrap approach to quantum field theory, and how they apply to two-dimensional theories with local conformal symmetry. We describe the mathematical structures that appear in such theories, from the Virasoro algebra and its representations, to BPZ equations and conformal blocks. Examples include Liouville theory, (generalized) minimal models, free bosonic theories, the $H_3^+$ model, and the $SU_2$ and $\widetilde{SL}_2(\mathbb{R})$ WZW models. We also discuss relations between some of these models, and limits of these models when the central charge and/or conformal dimensions tend to particular values.Comment: 142 pages. Public domain. Suggest modifications at https://github.com/ribault/CFT-Review . Version 5: More on the fusing matrix, limits of Liouville theory and minimal models, Runkel--Watts-type CFTs. Improved notations and normalization