M(atrix) String Theory on K3

TL;DR

This paper proposes a matrix model description of M-theory on K3, demonstrating its consistency with string theory compactifications and dualities, and providing evidence for the matrix model's validity in describing gravitons in ALE backgrounds.

Contribution

It introduces a matrix model conjecture for M-theory on K3 and provides evidence linking it to string theory and dualities, advancing understanding of non-perturbative M-theory.

Findings

Matrix model reproduces force law between gravitons in ALE background

Compactification recovers string theory on ALE space

Evidence of duality between M-theory on K3 and heterotic string on T^3

Abstract

We conjecture that M-theory compactified on an ALE space (or K3) is described by 0-branes moving on the ALE space. We give evidence for this by showing that if we compactify another circle, we recover string theory on the ALE space. This guarantees that in the large N limit, the matrix model correctly describes the force law between gravitons moving in an ALE background. We also show the appearance in M(atrix) theory of the duality of M-theory on K3 with the heterotic string on a three-torus.