Comments on the Problem of a Covariant Formulation of Matrix Theory

TL;DR

This paper explores the challenges in developing a covariant formulation of bosonic Matrix Theory, analyzing how to extend its symmetry while maintaining core features, inspired by covariant membrane descriptions.

Contribution

It identifies key problems in covariantizing Matrix Theory, especially regarding symmetry extension without losing essential properties.

Findings

Highlighting issues with symmetry enlargement in covariant formulations

Demonstrating conflicts between covariance and matrix theory features

Providing insights from membrane theory covariant descriptions

Abstract

A possible avenue towards the covariant formulation of the bosonic Matrix Theory is explored. The approach is guided by the known covariant description of the bosonic membrane. We point out various problems with this particular covariantization scheme, stemming from the central question of how to enlarge the original U(N) symmetry of Matrix Theory while preserving all of its essential features in the infinite momentum frame.