Consistent string backgrounds and completely integrable 2-D field theories

Aug, 1995

Citations per year

19952001200720132019310
Abstract:
After reviewing the β\beta-function equations for consistent string backgrounds in the σ\sigma-model approach, including metric and antisymmetric tensor, dilaton and tachyon potential, we apply this formalism to WZW models. We particularly emphasize the case where the WZW model is perturbed by an integrable marginal tachyon potential operator leading to the non-abelian Toda theories. Already in the simplest such theory, there is a large non-linear and non-local chiral algebra that extends the Virasoro algebra. This theory is shown to have two formulations, one being a classical reduction of the other. Only the non-reduced theory is shown to satisfy the β\beta-function equations.
Note:
  • 12 pages, uses PHYZZX
  • talk
  • sigma model: nonlinear
  • dimension: 2
  • field theory: Toda
  • string model
  • background field
  • Wess-Zumino-Witten model
  • renormalization group: beta function
  • integrability