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Title: Non-linear sigma-models and string theories

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6347351

The connection between sigma-models and string theories is discussed, as well as how the sigma-models can be used as tools to prove various results in string theories. Closed bosonic string theory in the light cone gauge is very briefly introduced. Then, closed bosonic string theory in the presence of massless background fields is discussed. The light cone gauge is used, and it is shown that in order to obtain a Lorentz invariant theory, the string theory in the presence of background fields must be described by a two-dimensional conformally invariant theory. The resulting constraints on the background fields are found to be the equations of motion of the string theory. The analysis is extended to the case of the heterotic string theory and the superstring theory in the presence of the massless background fields. It is then shown how to use these results to obtain nontrivial solutions to the string field equations. Another application of these results is shown, namely to prove that the effective cosmological constant after compactification vanishes as a consequence of the classical equations of motion of the string theory. 34 refs. (LEW)

Research Organization:
Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, Menlo Park, CA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-76SF00515
OSTI ID:
6347351
Report Number(s):
SLAC-PUB-4136; CONF-8606312-1; ON: DE87003268
Resource Relation:
Conference: Summer workshop on superstrings, unified theories and cosmology, Trieste, Italy, 30 Jun 1986; Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products. Original copy available until stock is exhausted
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English