M Theory As A Matrix Model: A Conjecture

TL;DR

This paper proposes a precise equivalence between eleven-dimensional M-theory and a supersymmetric matrix quantum mechanics model, suggesting a nonperturbative, holographic description of M-theory incorporating membrane states as noncommutative geometries.

Contribution

It introduces a conjecture linking M-theory to a matrix model, providing evidence and describing how membrane states emerge as excitations within this framework.

Findings

Matrix model captures supergravity particle interactions

Membrane states are realized as matrix excitations

Supports holographic principle in M-theory context

Abstract

We suggest and motivate a precise equivalence between uncompactified eleven dimensional M-theory and the N = infinity limit of the supersymmetric matrix quantum mechanics describing D0-branes. The evidence for the conjecture consists of several correspondences between the two theories. As a consequence of supersymmetry the simple matrix model is rich enough to describe the properties of the entire Fock space of massless well separated particles of the supergravity theory. In one particular kinematic situation the leading large distance interaction of these particles is exactly described by supergravity . The model appears to be a nonperturbative realization of the holographic principle. The membrane states required by M-theory are contained as excitations of the matrix model. The membrane world volume is a noncommutative geometry embedded in a noncommutative spacetime.