Axial Vector Duality as a Gauge Symmetry and Topology Change in String Theory

TL;DR

This paper explores a duality symmetry in string theory arising from marginal deformations of WZW models, revealing that axial and vector cosets are equivalent CFTs and demonstrating topology-changing deformations.

Contribution

It introduces a gauge symmetry interpretation of duality in string theory and shows how different topologies can be connected through smooth deformations.

Findings

Axial and vector cosets are equivalent conformal field theories.

Duality symmetry can be viewed as a broken gauge symmetry.

Deformations interpolate between manifolds with different topologies.

Abstract

Lines generated by marginal deformations of WZW models are considered. The Weyl symmetry at the WZW point implies the existence of a duality symmetry on such lines. The duality is interpreted as a broken gauge symmetry in string theory. It is shown that at the two end points the axial and vector cosets are obtained. This shows that the axial and vector cosets are equivalent CFTs both in the compact and the non-compact cases. Moreover, it is shown that there are $\s$-model deformations that interpolate smoothly between manifolds with different topologies.