Mersenne Primes, Polygonal Anomalies and String Theory Classification

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential role of Mersenne primes and related perfect numbers in string theory, proposing that they could be key to classifying consistent string theories.

Contribution

It introduces a novel connection between number theory and string theory, suggesting a new framework for classifying string theories based on Mersenne primes.

Findings

Mersenne primes may influence string theory classification

Perfect numbers associated with Mersenne primes are significant in this context

The paper proposes a new perspective linking number theory and theoretical physics

Abstract

It is pointed out that the Mersenne primes $M_p=(2^p-1)$ and associated perfect numbers ${\cal M}_p=2^{p-1}M_p$ play a significant role in string theory; this observation may suggest a classification of consistent string theories.