Alternative scaling hypothesis for SU(2) and SU(3) lattice gauge theories

High precision data from a variety of sources for SU(2) and SU(3) Wilson action lattice gauge theory are analyzed with respect to the hypothesis of the possible existence of a zero temperature deconfining phase transition, in analogy with the U(1) theory. The internal energy, specific heat, string tension, and Wilson line, fit well to correlation length scaling laws associated with a finite order transition occurring at the weak coupling end of the crossover region for both theories. The SU(2) theory is consistent with a correlation length exponent ν = 2/3 and critical point βc ≅ 2.47. For SU(3) the data fit well to ν = 1 and βc ≅ 6.69. Additional indirect evidence for the existence of such phase transitions is discussed, as is the possible crucial role of light dynamical fermions in the confinement mechanism. (orig.)