Lattice gauge theory visualization

Wilson Loop Lab

Build intuition for Wilson loops and area law on a 2D lattice

Drag to choose a rectangular loop

Controls

Readout

Loop size 4 x 3
Area 12
Perimeter 14
Single configuration W(gamma) Re 0.00 · Im 0.00
Ensemble average Re 0.00 · Im 0.00
Area-law estimate 0.00
Legend
U(1) phase mapping
SU(2) axis mapping

How to use

Physics note

This uses random link variables to show qualitative area-law behavior, not a full Monte Carlo simulation.

At strong coupling, large loops decay quickly, matching confinement intuition.