The inverse square potential arises in a variety of different quantum phenomena, yet notoriously it must be handled with care: it suffers from pathologies rooted in the mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics. We show that its recently studied conformality breaking corresponds to an infinitely smooth winding-unwinding topological transition for the classical statistical mechanics of a one-dimensional system: this describes the tangling or untangling of floppy polymers under a biasing torque. When the ratio between torque and temperature exceeds a critical value the polymer undergoes tangled oscillations, with an extensive winding number. At lower torque or higher temperature the winding number per unit length is zero. Approaching criticality, the correlation length of the order parameter—the extensive winding number—follows a Kosterlitz-Thouless-type law. The model is described by the Wilson line of a ($0+1$) $U(1)$ gauge theory, and applies to the tangling or untangling of floppy polymers and to the winding or diffusing kinetics in diffusion-convection reactions.

• Received 20 October 2013

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.112.070401