F-theory and the Gimon-Polchinski Orientifold

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the equivalence between Gimon-Polchinski orientifold and F-theory on a specific Calabi-Yau threefold, clarifying their relationship through gauge symmetry, moduli space, and axion-dilaton analysis.

Contribution

It establishes a detailed correspondence between the orientifold and F-theory frameworks, resolving discrepancies and enhancing understanding of their equivalence.

Findings

Matching gauge symmetry breaking patterns

Consistent local deformations in moduli space

Resolution of coupling discrepancy

Abstract

We establish the equivalence of the Gimon-Polchinski orientifold and F-theory on an elliptically fibered Calabi-Yau three fold on base $CP^1 \times CP^1$ by comparing the gauge symmetry breaking pattern, local deformations in the moduli space, as well as the axion-dilaton background in the weak coupling limit in the two theories. We also provide an explanation for an apparent discrepancy between the F-theory and the orientifold results for constant coupling configuration.