A Matrix Model for the Null-Brane

TL;DR

This paper constructs a non-perturbative matrix model for the null-brane background in string theory, enabling the study of time evolution and singularities via a dual Yang-Mills theory.

Contribution

It introduces a novel DLCQ matrix model for the null-brane, linking string theory backgrounds to a time-dependent Yang-Mills framework.

Findings

Provides a non-perturbative description of null-brane dynamics.

Enables analysis of big crunch/big bang singularities.

Offers insights into the fate of null time in string theory.

Abstract

The null-brane background is a simple smooth 1/2 BPS solution of string theory. By tuning a parameter, this background develops a big crunch/big bang type singularity. We construct the DLCQ description of this space-time in terms of a Yang-Mills theory on a time-dependent space-time. Our dual Matrix description provides a non-perturbative framework in which the fate of both (null) time, and the string S-matrix can be studied.