Noncompact three-dimensional quantum electrodynamics with Nf=1 and Nf=4

We present numerical results for noncompact three-dimensional quantum electrodynamics for numbers of flavors Nf=1 and Nf=4. In particular, we address the issue of whether chiral symmetry is spontaneously broken in the continuum limit, and obtain a positive answer for Nf=1, with a dimensionless condensate estimated to be β2<ψψ>≅O(10-3), implying that the critical number of flavors Nfc>1. We also compare the Nf=1 and Nf=4 models by analyzing the transition from strong to weak coupling behavior using an equation of state based on a continuous phase transition. While some qualitative differences emerge, it appears difficult to determine whether Nf=4 lies above or below Nfc