Bosonic Strings and their Verma modules

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between Verma modules with highest weight states of $h=0$ and $h=1$ in the context of representation theory for bosonic string fields and the Virasoro algebra. It is noted that while the Verma module for open bosonic strings has a highest weight state of $h=0$, the Verma module for Virasoro algebra with a non-trivial central extension has a highest weight state of $h=1$. This difference in highest weight states is necessary to avoid spurious states with negative norm.
  • #1
Korybut
60
2
Hi there!

I have som troubles with representation theory.
It is obvious that bosonic strings fields $X^{\mu}$ has zero conformal dimension $h=0$. But when one builds Verma module (open string for example) highest weight state has the following definition
$$
L_0 \vert h \rangle = 1 \vert h \rangle
$$

All descendants states have even higher grading with respect to $L_0$. This shift is necessary for the absence or spurious states (negative norm).

How Verma module with $h=1$ coonected to open bosonic string with $h=0$?
 
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  • #2
If Virasoro algebra has not central charge, Verma modules with $h=1$ and $h=0$ are in some sense equivalent
$$
\vert 1 \rangle = L_+ \vert 0 \rangle,
$$
where
$$
L_0 \vert 0\rangle =0 \;\; L_0 \vert 1 \rangle=-\vert 1 \rangle
$$
Applying lowering operators $L_-$
$$
L_- L_+ \vert 0\rangle = (L_- L_+ - 2L_0) \vert 0 \rangle =0
$$
State $\vert 1 \rangle$ is highest weight state from this simple exercise. But when Virasoro algebra has non-trivial central extension state $\vert 0 \rangle$ will apper in spectrum
 

Related to Bosonic Strings and their Verma modules

1. What are bosonic strings?

Bosonic strings are one of the two types of fundamental strings in string theory, the other being fermionic strings. They are theoretical objects that are thought to be the building blocks of the universe and are one-dimensional objects that vibrate at specific frequencies.

2. How are bosonic strings different from fermionic strings?

Bosonic strings are characterized by their spin-0 nature, meaning they have integer spin, while fermionic strings have spin-1/2, meaning they have half-integer spin. This difference in spin leads to different properties and behaviors of the two types of strings.

3. What are Verma modules in relation to bosonic strings?

Verma modules are a type of mathematical structure used in string theory to study the properties of bosonic strings. They are representations of the symmetry algebra of bosonic strings and are used to describe the possible states and interactions of the strings.

4. How do bosonic strings and their Verma modules relate to superstring theory?

Bosonic strings and their Verma modules were the basis of the first version of string theory, known as the bosonic string theory. However, it was later found that this theory was inconsistent and could not fully describe the universe. Superstring theory, which includes fermionic strings and their Verma modules, was developed to overcome these limitations.

5. What is the significance of bosonic strings and their Verma modules in understanding the universe?

Bosonic strings and their Verma modules are important in understanding the fundamental building blocks of the universe and the laws of physics that govern them. They provide a theoretical framework for studying the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales and may hold the key to unifying all the forces in the universe.

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