LIGHT-FRONT QCD(1+1) COUPLED TO CHIRAL ADJOINT FERMIONS

We consider SU(N) gauge theory in 1+1 dimensions coupled to chiral fer mions in the adjoint representation of the gauge group. With all field s in the adjoint representation the gauge group is actually SU(N)/Z(N) , which possesses nontrivial topology. In particular, there are N dist inct topological sectors and the physical vacuum state has a structure analogous to a theta vacuum. We show how this feature is realized in light-front quantization for the case N = 2, using discretization as a n infrared regulator. In the discretized form of the theory the nontri vial vacuum structure is associated with the zero momentum mode of the gauge field A(+). We find exact expressions for the degenerate vacuum states and the analog of the B vacuum. The model also possesses a con densate which we calculate. We discuss the difference between this chi ral light-front theory and the theories that have previously been cons idered in the equal-time approach.