pith. sign in

arxiv: hep-th/9307108 · v1 · submitted 1993-07-16 · ✦ hep-th

Classical and Quantized Tensionless Strings

classification ✦ hep-th
keywords symmetrystringtheoryconformaldetailsleadsspace-timetensionless
0
0 comments X
read the original abstract

{}From the ordinary tensile string we derive a geometric action for the tensionless ($T=0$) string and discuss its symmetries and field equations. The Weyl symmetry of the usual string is shown to be replaced by a global space-time conformal symmetry in the $T\to 0$ limit. We present the explicit expressions for the generators of this group in the light-cone gauge. Using these, we quantize the theory in an operator form and require the conformal symmetry to remain a symmetry of the quantum theory. Modulo details concerning zero-modes that are discussed in the paper, this leads to the stringent restriction that the physical states should be singlets under space-time diffeomorphisms, hinting at a topological theory. We present the details of the calculation that leads to this conclusion.

This paper has not been read by Pith yet.

discussion (0)

Sign in with ORCID, Apple, or X to comment. Anyone can read and Pith papers without signing in.

Forward citations

Cited by 7 Pith papers

Reviewed papers in the Pith corpus that reference this work. Sorted by Pith novelty score.

  1. New-born strings are tensionless

    hep-th 2026-04 unverdicted novelty 7.0

    Tensionless strings arise exclusively at birth in the ultra-shrinking limit of a causal diamond worldsheet, revealing a new phase with global ultra-local Carrollian structure.

  2. On $\sqrt{T\overline{T}}$ deformed pathways: CFT to CCFT

    hep-th 2026-01 unverdicted novelty 7.0

    The marginal √(T T-bar) deformation of 2D massless scalars provides a dynamical map from relativistic CFT to Carrollian CCFT symmetries, recovering the electric Carroll theory and a novel magnetic counterpart in the e...

  3. Covariant phase space approach to noncommutativity in tensile and tensionless open strings

    hep-th 2026-04 unverdicted novelty 6.0

    Covariant phase space analysis shows tensionless open strings in constant Kalb-Ramond background have purely boundary-supported phase space with noncommutative endpoint coordinates, recovering Seiberg-Witten noncommut...

  4. Strings near BTZ black holes: A Carrollian Chronicle

    hep-th 2025-10 unverdicted novelty 6.0

    The paper classifies families of closed bosonic string solutions in the near-horizon non-extremal BTZ spacetime and identifies novel features via string-Carroll expansion.

  5. Worldsheet Formalism for Decoupling Limits in String Theory

    hep-th 2023-11 unverdicted novelty 6.0

    Develops worldsheet sigma model for fundamental strings in critical type IIA limit showing nodal singularities and derives T-duality web unifying decoupling limits including ambitwistor and Carrollian strings.

  6. Carrollian Perspective on Celestial Holography

    hep-th 2022-02 unverdicted novelty 6.0

    A 3d sourced conformal Carrollian field theory is proposed to holographically capture 4d flat gravity kinematics, with Ward identities matching 2d celestial CFT after relating operators.

  7. On the Consistency of Null Strings Literature: The Tale of an Overlooked Symmetry

    hep-th 2026-05 unverdicted novelty 5.0

    Null strings possess an overlooked local symmetry that reduces their physical degrees of freedom to D-3 rather than the D-2 reported in prior literature.