Holography Principle and Topology Change in String Theory

TL;DR

This paper explores how D-instantons in Type IIB string theory relate to topology change and holography, revealing that such changes are necessary for consistency but remain deterministic, contrasting with earlier probabilistic ideas.

Contribution

It demonstrates that topology change and sum over topologies are essential for holographic consistency in string theory, challenging previous notions of probabilistic effects.

Findings

Topology change occurs in string theory and is necessary for holography.

D-instanton wormholes lead to deterministic effects, not probabilistic.

Holography constrains topology change, ensuring consistency.

Abstract

D-instantons of Type IIB string theory are Ramond-Ramond counterpart of Giddings-Strominger wormholes connecting two asymptotic regions of spacetime. Such wormholes, according to Coleman, might lead to spacetime topology change, third-quantized baby universes and probabilistic determination of fundamental coupling parameters. Utilizing correspondence between AdS5 x M5 Type IIB supergravity and d=4 super Yang-Mills theory, we point out that topology change and sum over topologies not only take place in string theory but also are required for consistency with holography. Nevertheless, the effects of D-instanton wormholes remain completely deterministic, in sharp contrast to Coleman's scenario.