Superextendons with a modified measure

TL;DR

This paper explores a modified measure approach in superstring theory, where the measure is independent of the metric, leading to a dynamically generated string tension and eliminating the need for a cosmological term.

Contribution

It introduces a new measure formulation for superstrings that results in a dynamically generated tension and extends to higher-dimensional objects without requiring a cosmological term.

Findings

String tension emerges as an integration constant.

The modified measure approach generalizes to higher-dimensional branes.

No cosmological term is needed on the world brane in this formulation.

Abstract

For superstrings, the consequences of replacing the measure of integration $\sqrt{-\gamma}d^2 x$ in the Polyakov's action by $\Phi d^2 x$ where $\Phi$ is a density built out of degrees of freedom independent of the metric $\gamma_{ab}$ defined in the string are studied. As in Siegel reformulation of the Green Schwarz formalism the Wess-Zumino term is the square of supersymmetric currents. As opposed to the Siegel case, the compensating fields needed for this do not enter into the action just as in a total derivative. They instead play a crucial role to make up a consistent dynamics. The string tension appears as an integration constant of the equations of motion. The generalization to higher dimensional extended objects is also studied using in this case the Bergshoeff and Sezgin formalism with the associated additional fields, which again are dynamically relevant unlike the standard formulation. Also unlike the standard formulation, there is no need of a cosmological term on the world brane.