String-breaking rates in Rydberg lattice gauge theories
In plain words
A string of field between two charges can snap by creating a new pair of particles, as in the binding of quarks. Rydberg arrays have shown this snapping, and the task is to measure how fast it happens.
Precise statement
For a Rydberg encoding of a (2+1)D $Z2$ or $U(1)$ lattice gauge theory, measure the string-breaking time as a function of string tension $\sigma$ and matter mass $m$, and compare with semiclassical pair-creation rates of the Schwinger form $\Gamma \sim \exp(-c m^2/\sigma)$. Answer: measured scaling and constant $c$ with errors.
What would settle it
A systematic scan of $\sigma$ and $m$ on a Rydberg array with breaking times compared to tensor-network or exact simulations.
Status in the literature
Unverified note
String breaking was observed on a (2+1)D Rydberg simulator in 2024 to 2025 (arXiv:2410.16558); quantitative rates and metastability are under study in 2026 (arXiv:2602.22890).