Double field theory: a pedagogical review
Abstract
Double field theory (DFT) is a proposal to incorporate T-duality, a distinctive symmetry of string theory, as a symmetry of a field theory defined on a double configuration space. The aim of this review is to provide a pedagogical presentation of DFT and its applications. We first introduce some basic ideas on T-duality and supergravity in order to proceed to the construction of generalized diffeomorphisms and an invariant action on the double space. Steps towards the construction of a geometry on the double space are discussed. We then address generalized Scherk-Schwarz compactifications of DFT and their connection to gauged supergravity and flux compactifications. We also discuss U-duality extensions and present a brief parcours on worldsheet approaches to DFT. Finally, we provide a summary of other developments and applications that are not discussed in detail in the review.
- Publication:
-
Classical and Quantum Gravity
- Pub Date:
- August 2013
- DOI:
- 10.1088/0264-9381/30/16/163001
- arXiv:
- arXiv:1305.1907
- Bibcode:
- 2013CQGra..30p3001A
- Keywords:
-
- High Energy Physics - Theory
- E-Print:
- 121 pages, invited review for Class. Quantum Grav