Strings vs. spins on the null orbifold

Kiran, Surya K and Krishnan, Chethan and Saurabh, Ayush and Simon, Joan (2014) Strings vs. spins on the null orbifold. In: JOURNAL OF HIGH ENERGY PHYSICS (12).

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Abstract

We study the null orbifold singularity in 2+1 d flat space higher spin theory as well as string theory. Using the Chern-Simons formulation of 2+1 d Einstein gravity, we first observe that despite the singular nature of this geometry, the eigenvalues of its Chern-Simons holonomy are trivial. Next, we construct a resolution of the singularity in higher spin theory: a Kundt spacetime with vanishing scalar curvature invariants. We also point out that the UV divergences previously observed in the 2-to-2 tachyon tree level string amplitude on the null orbifold do not arise in the at alpha' -> infinity limit. We find all the divergences of the amplitude and demonstrate that the ones remaining in the tensionless limit are physical IR-type divergences. We conclude with a discussion on the meaning and limitations of higher spin (cosmological) singularity resolution and its potential connection to string theory.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	JOURNAL OF HIGH ENERGY PHYSICS
Publisher:	SPRINGER
Additional Information:	Copy right for this article belongs to the SPRINGER, 233 SPRING ST, NEW YORK, NY 10013 USA
Keywords:	Higher Spin Gravity; Bosonic Strings; Spacetime Singularities; Higher Spin Symmetry
Department/Centre:	Division of Physical & Mathematical Sciences > Centre for High Energy Physics
Date Deposited:	19 Mar 2015 12:12
Last Modified:	19 Mar 2015 12:12
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/51068

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