M-Theory and Maximally Supersymmetric Gauge Theories

TY - JOUR

T1 - M-Theory and Maximally Supersymmetric Gauge Theories

AU - Lambert, Neil

PY - 2012/11

Y1 - 2012/11

N2 - In this informal review for non-specalists we discuss the construction of maximally supersymmetric gauge theories that arise on the worldvolumes branes in String Theory and M-Theory. Particular focus is made on the relatively recent construction of M2-brane worldvolume theories. In a formal sense, the existence of these quantum field theories can be viewed as predictions of M-Theory. Their construction is therefore a reinforcement of the ideas underlying String Theory and M-Theory. We also briefly discuss the six-dimensional conformal field theory that is expected to arise on M5-branes. The construction of this theory is not only an important open problem for M-Theory but also a significant challenge to our current understanding of quantum field theory more generally.

AB - In this informal review for non-specalists we discuss the construction of maximally supersymmetric gauge theories that arise on the worldvolumes branes in String Theory and M-Theory. Particular focus is made on the relatively recent construction of M2-brane worldvolume theories. In a formal sense, the existence of these quantum field theories can be viewed as predictions of M-Theory. Their construction is therefore a reinforcement of the ideas underlying String Theory and M-Theory. We also briefly discuss the six-dimensional conformal field theory that is expected to arise on M5-branes. The construction of this theory is not only an important open problem for M-Theory but also a significant challenge to our current understanding of quantum field theory more generally.

U2 - 10.1146/annurev-nucl-102010-130248

DO - 10.1146/annurev-nucl-102010-130248

M3 - Article

SN - 0163-8998

VL - 62

SP - 285

EP - 313

JO - ANNUAL REVIEW OF NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE SCIENCE

JF - ANNUAL REVIEW OF NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE SCIENCE

ER -