Dynamical Topology Change in M Theory

TL;DR

This paper investigates how topology change occurs in M theory compactifications on Calabi-Yau three-folds with G flux, revealing that field equations can drive moduli outside classical spaces and linking flop curves to magnetic charges.

Contribution

It demonstrates that topology change in M theory can be driven by field equations and connects flop curves to magnetic charges under G flux, within strongly coupled heterotic string theory.

Findings

Topology change is driven by field equations in M theory.

Degenerate flop curves carry magnetic charges under G flux.

Moduli can exit the classical Calabi-Yau moduli space.

Abstract

We study topology change in M theory compactifications on Calabi-Yau three-folds in the presence of G flux (the four form field strength). In particular, we discuss vacuum solutions in strongly coupled heterotic string theory in which the topology change is inevitable within a single spacetime background. For rather generic choices of initial conditions, the field equations drive the Kahler moduli outside the classical moduli space of a Calabi-Yau manifold. Consistency of the solution suggests that degenerate flop curves - just as wrapped M theory fivebranes - carry magnetic charges under the four form field strength.