Why do matrix models fail to be The M-Theory?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the limitations of matrix models, specifically IKKT and BFSS, in fully representing M-theory. Participants explore theoretical aspects, implications for quantum gravity, and the relationship between these models and string theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the specific aspects in which the BFSS and IKKT models fail to encapsulate M-theory.
  • Another participant cites a paper suggesting that BFSS matrix theory, while conjectured to describe the infinite momentum frame limit of M-theory, does not include the eleventh space-time coordinate, complicating the derivation of M-theory's full dynamics.
  • A participant asks about the IKKT model, indicating interest in its potential shortcomings or differences.
  • A reference to another paper highlights the IKKT model as a promising candidate for a quantum theory of fundamental interactions, including gravity, but notes that it does not align with string theory.
  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the distinction between these models and string theory, questioning why they are not considered equivalent.
  • Another participant suggests that the lack of clarity regarding the relationship to string theory stems from the different types of backgrounds and configurations considered in the respective models.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the reasons for the failure of matrix models to represent M-theory, with multiple competing views and uncertainties remaining regarding their relationship to string theory.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects limitations in understanding the implications of the infinite momentum frame and the specific characteristics of non-commutative brane configurations in relation to M-theory and string theory.

MTd2
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In what aspect do they fail (IKKT and BFSS) to be?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
http://arxiv.org/abs/1003.4694
"BFSS matrix theory is conjectured to describe infinite momentum frame (IMF) limit of Mtheory in [1] and many evidences were found. However, because of the limit, the theory does not include a variable corresponding to the eleventh space-time coordinate of M-theory; it includes only time and nine matrices corresponding to nine spatial coordinates. As a result, it is very difficult to derive full dynamics of M-theory."
 
Right, what about the IKKT model?
 
http://arxiv.org/abs/1003.4134
"The IKKT model with D=10 and close relatives are singled out as promising candidates for a quantum theory of fundamental interactions including gravity. "

But this isn't string theory.
 
But why aren`t they the same as string theory?
 
I guess it's not clear that it's string theory.

He refers to string theory work as "based on a different type of block-matrix background, and NC branes have been considered only for geometries with a high degree of symmetry." Whereas in his work the "new point here is to consider general NC brane configurations and their effective gravity in the matrix model, without physical 10D bulk."
 

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