On Fusion Algebras and Modular Matrices

Abstract:We consider the fusion algebras arising in e.g. Wess–Zumino–Witten conformal field theories, affine Kac–Moody algebras at positive integer level, and quantum groups at roots of unity. Using properties of the modular matrix S, we find small sets of primary fields (equivalently, sets of highest weights) which can be identified with the variables of a polynomial realization of the Ar fusion algebra at level k. We prove that for many choices of rank r and level k, the number of these variables is the minimum possible, and we conjecture that it is in fact minimal for most r and k. We also find new, systematic sources of zeros in the modular matrix S. In addition, we obtain a formula relating the entries of S at fixed points, to entries of S at smaller ranks and levels. Finally, we identify the number fields generated over the rationals by the entries of S, and by the fusion (Verlinde) eigenvalues.