Conformal weights of the vertex operator

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SUMMARY

The conformal weight of the bosonic vertex operator :e^{ik\cdot X}: is definitively \left(\frac{\alpha'k^2}{4},\frac{\alpha'k^2}{4}\right). The discussion highlights an algebraic error where the contributor mistakenly calculated a factor of 2 instead of the correct factor of 4. This error is critical in deriving the correct conformal weight, which is essential for understanding vertex operator algebra in string theory.

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maverick280857
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Hi,

I'm trying to prove that the conformal weight of the bosonic vertex operator :e^{ik\cdot X}: is \left(\frac{\alpha'k^2}{4},\frac{\alpha'k^2}{4}\right).

I've done some algebra but I think I am making some mistake with a factor of 2 somewhere because I get a 1/2 instead of a 1/4. My attempt is detailed in the attachment.

Can someone please tell me what is wrong here? Its probably a dumb thing, but I don't see it.

Thanks!
 

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To the moderator: this should probably be moved to the "Beyond the Standard Model" subforum. Apologies for the inconvenience!
 

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