Entanglement entropy in non-relativistic field theories

Abstract

We calculate entanglement entropy in a non-relativistic field theory described by the Schrödinger operator. We demonstrate that the entropy is characterized by i) the area law and ii) UV divergences that are identical to those in the relativistic field theory. These observations are further supported by a holographic consideration. We use the non-relativistic symmetry and completely specify entanglement entropy in large class of non-relativistic theories described by the field operators polynomial in derivatives. The entropy of interacting fields is analyzed in some detail. We suggest that the area law of the entropy can be tested in experiments with condensed matter systems such as liquid helium. © SISSA 2010.