Questions about Neveu-Schwarz B-field

In summary, the Neveu-Schwarz B-field and the antisymmetric tensor have similar appearances in string theory, but may be referred to by different names such as NS-NS 2-form and Wess-Zumino-Witten term. The definition of \epsilon^{\mu\nu} is the Levi-Civita symbol. To ensure correct integration, the determinant of the metric should also be included.
  • #1
synoe
23
0
In string theory, the Neveu-Schwarz [itex]B[/itex]-field appears in the action:
[tex]
S_{NS}=\frac{1}{4\pi\alpha^\prime}\int d^2\xi\;\epsilon^{\mu\nu}B_{ij}\partial_\mu X^i\partial_\nu X^j.
[/tex]

In Polchinski's text, the antisymmetric tensor appears in the form of
[tex]
\frac{1}{4\pi\alpha^\prime}\int d^2\xi\;\sqrt{\gamma}i\epsilon^{\mu\nu}B_{ij}\partial_\mu X^i\partial_\nu X^j,
[/tex]
where [itex]\gamma[/itex] is the world sheet metric.

(1)
These terms are same?
Terms apparently these terms seem to be called NS-NS 2-form, Wess-Zumino-Witten term, or just antisymmeteric tensor. These terminologies are the same meaning?

(2)
What's the definition of [itex]\epsilon^{\mu\nu}[/itex]?

(3)
Is this term conformal invariant?
Could you show the invariance?
 
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  • #2
[itex]\epsilon_{\mu \nu}[/itex] is the Levi-Civita symbol. Click the link to learn about that.

You need the square root of the determinant of the metric in there to be doing the integral correctly, as far as I can tell.
 

FAQ: Questions about Neveu-Schwarz B-field

1. What is the Neveu-Schwarz B-field?

The Neveu-Schwarz B-field is a mathematical concept used in string theory to describe the behavior of closed strings. It is a two-form field that describes the interactions between strings and is a crucial component of the theory's equations of motion.

2. How is the Neveu-Schwarz B-field related to T-duality?

The Neveu-Schwarz B-field plays a significant role in T-duality, which is a symmetry of string theory that relates different string configurations. Under T-duality, the B-field is transformed into a different two-form field, and this transformation is crucial for preserving the equations of motion.

3. What is the significance of the NS five-brane in relation to the Neveu-Schwarz B-field?

The NS five-brane is a type of extended object in string theory that is wrapped in the directions of the B-field. It is a crucial ingredient in the construction of string theories with higher-dimensional branes, and its dynamics are intimately related to the behavior of the B-field.

4. Can the Neveu-Schwarz B-field be experimentally observed?

No, the Neveu-Schwarz B-field is a purely theoretical construct and has not been observed in experiments. However, its effects can be indirectly observed through the behavior of strings and other objects in string theory.

5. How does the Neveu-Schwarz B-field relate to supersymmetry?

The Neveu-Schwarz B-field is an essential ingredient in supersymmetric string theories. It is one of the fields that make up the supergravity multiplet, which is a collection of fields that describe the dynamics of supersymmetric theories. The B-field also plays a role in the construction of supersymmetric dualities in string theory.

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