Applications of generalized symmetries in gauge theories

We begin with a review of generalized global symmetries and recent applications in studying phases of gauge theories. Next, we describe the phenomenon of symmetry transmutation, where an ordinary global symmetry in the UV theory transmutes into a generalized higher-form symmetry in the effective low-energy theory. Notably, transmuted symmetries are exact rather than accidental. We then discuss gauge theories in which the anomaly of the UV symmetry is matched by the anomaly of the transmuted symmetry in the IR. Finally, we explore symmetry transmutation and its potential implications for real-world QCD.