Non-perturbative effects in two-dimensional lattice O(N) models

Non-abelian analogues of Kosterlitz-Thouless vortices may have important effects in two-dimensional lattice spin systems with O(N) symmetries. Renormalization group equations which include these effects are developed in two ways. The first set of equations extends the renormalization group equations of Kosterlitz to O(N) spin systems, in a form suggested by Cardy and Hamber. The second is derived from a Villain-type O(N) model using Migdal's recursion relations. Using these equations, the part played by topological excitations in the crossover from weak to strong coupling behavior is studied. Another effect which influences crossover behavior is also discussed: irrelevant operators which occur naturally in lattice theories can make important contributions to the renormalization group flow in the crossover region. When combined with conventional perturbative results, these two effects may explain the observed crossover behavior of these models.