String universality in ten dimensions

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that certain ten-dimensional supergravity theories with specific gauge groups are inconsistent as quantum theories due to anomaly issues, confirming that only string theory provides consistent supersymmetric gravity models in this dimension.

Contribution

It proves the inconsistency of ${ m U}(1)^{496}$ and ${ m E}_8 imes { m U}(1)^{248}$ supergravity theories in ten dimensions, establishing string theory as the unique consistent framework.

Findings

${ m U}(1)^{496}$ and ${ m E}_8 imes { m U}(1)^{248}$ theories are inconsistent

Anomaly cancellation conflicts with supersymmetry and gauge invariance

String theory uniquely realizes consistent supersymmetric theories in ten dimensions

Abstract

We show that the ${\cal N}=1$ supergravity theories in ten dimensions with gauge groups $U(1)^{496}$ and $E_8 \times U(1)^{248}$ are not consistent quantum theories. Cancellation of anomalies cannot be made compatible with supersymmetry and abelian gauge invariance. Thus, in ten dimensions all supersymmetric theories of gravity without known inconsistencies are realized in string theory.