A Mathematical Introduction to String Theory

Description

Classical string theory is concerned with the propagation of classical 1-dimensional curves 'strings', and the theory has connections to the calculus of variations, minimal surfaces and harmonic maps. The quantization of string theory gives rise to problems in different areas, according to the method used. The representation theory of Lie, Kac-Moody and Virasoro algebras have been used for such quantization. In this lecture note the authors give an introduction to certain global analytic and probabilistic aspects of string theory. It is their intention to bring together, and make explicit the necessary mathematical tools. Researchers with an interest in string theory, in either mathematics or theoretical physics, will find this a stimulating volume.

First Sentence

In recent years string theory has attracted great interest in physics and mathematics and has become one of the main sources of mutual stimulation and cross fertilization in these areas.

Subjects

Other Editions

• A Mathematical Introduction to String Theory: Variational Problems, Geometric and Probabilistic Methods (London Mathematical Society Lecture Note Series)PaperbackCambridge University Press1997-08-28
• Mathematical Introduction to String TheoryCambridge University Press1997-01-01
• Mathematical Introduction to String TheoryCambridge University Press2011-01-01
• Mathematical Introduction to String TheoryCambridge University Press2012-01-01