String Theory and Matrix Models

TL;DR

This paper explores the relationship between matrix models and string theory, addressing interpretational puzzles and proposing potential links to non-perturbative formulations and D-branes.

Contribution

It discusses unresolved issues in the space-time interpretation of matrix models and suggests a possible connection to D-branes and non-perturbative string theory.

Findings

Analysis of leg poles and causality in matrix models

Discussion of black hole backgrounds in the context of matrix models

Speculation on a connection between deformed matrix models and D-branes

Abstract

It is generally accepted that the double-scaled 1D matrix model is equivalent to the $c=1$ string theory with tachyon condensation. There remain however puzzles that are to be clarified in order to utilize this connection for our quest towards possible non-perturbative formulation of string theory. We discuss some of the issues that are related to the space-time interpretation of matrix models, in particular, the questions of leg poles, causality, and black hole background. Finally, a speculation about a possible connection of a deformed matrix model with the idea of Dirichret brane is presented.