摘要: Abstract The dynamics of global topological defects are investigated. stability towards radial rescaling monopoles and vortices is verified virial theorems connecting the potential gradient energies obtained. validity these demonstrated numerically. angular monopole instability first discussed by Goldhaber also examined. It shown that even though his correct, this manifests itself as motion core rather than unwinding. interactions studied both analytically An analytical derivation their interaction followed numerical simulation verifying predicted potential. Using boosted field configurations we demonstrate existence critical velocities for defect scattering annihilation.