A Matrix Big Bang

TL;DR

This paper models a big bang-like singularity in string theory using a light-like linear dilaton background and constructs a dual Matrix theory description, offering insights into the physics of such singularities.

Contribution

It introduces a Matrix theory framework for a time-dependent background with a big bang singularity, advancing understanding of singularities in string/M-theory.

Findings

The background is a simple time-dependent 1/2 BPS solution in type IIA superstring theory.

The dual Matrix theory is a (1+1)-d supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on a Milne orbifold.

The model suggests the physics near the singularity can be effectively analyzed.

Abstract

The light-like linear dilaton background represents a particularly simple time-dependent 1/2 BPS solution of critical type IIA superstring theory in ten dimensions. Its lift to M-theory, as well as its Einstein frame metric, are singular in the sense that the geometry is geodesically incomplete and the Riemann tensor diverges along a light-like subspace of codimension one. We study this background as a model for a big bang type singularity in string theory/M-theory. We construct the dual Matrix theory description in terms of a (1+1)-d supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on a time-dependent world-sheet given by the Milne orbifold of (1+1)-d Minkowski space. Our model provides a framework in which the physics of the singularity appears to be under control.