Interactions of strings and D-branes from M theory

TL;DR

This paper explores how classical membrane and fivebrane interactions in M theory give rise to string and D-brane interactions in type II string theories, highlighting the classical connection between these frameworks.

Contribution

It demonstrates that known string-D-brane interactions emerge from classical M theory interactions under certain limits, providing insight into their relationship.

Findings

Classical membrane and fivebrane interactions lead to string-D-brane interactions.

The known interactions in type II string theories are derived from M theory assumptions.

Discussion of issues related to M theory and enhanced gauge symmetries.

Abstract

We discuss the relation between M theory and type II string theories. We show that, assuming ``natural'' interactions between membranes and fivebranes in M theory, the known interactions between strings and D-branes in type II string theories arise in appropriate limits. Our discussion of the interactions is purely at the classical level. We remark on issues associated with the M theory approach to enhanced gauge symmetries, which deserve further investigation.