Table of Contents
Fetching ...

D-branes and K-theory in 2D topological field theory

Gregory W. Moore, Graeme Segal

Abstract

This expository paper describes sewing conditions in two-dimensional open/closed topological field theory. We include a description of the G-equivariant case, where G is a finite group. We determine the category of boundary conditions in the case that the closed string algebra is semisimple. In this case we find that sewing constraints -- the most primitive form of worldsheet locality -- already imply that D-branes are (G-twisted) vector bundles on spacetime. We comment on extensions to cochain-valued theories and various applications. Finally, we give uniform proofs of all relevant sewing theorems using Morse theory.

D-branes and K-theory in 2D topological field theory

Abstract

This expository paper describes sewing conditions in two-dimensional open/closed topological field theory. We include a description of the G-equivariant case, where G is a finite group. We determine the category of boundary conditions in the case that the closed string algebra is semisimple. In this case we find that sewing constraints -- the most primitive form of worldsheet locality -- already imply that D-branes are (G-twisted) vector bundles on spacetime. We comment on extensions to cochain-valued theories and various applications. Finally, we give uniform proofs of all relevant sewing theorems using Morse theory.
Paper Structure (78 equations, 49 figures)

This paper contains 78 equations, 49 figures.

Figures (49)

  • Figure :
  • Figure :
  • Figure :
  • Figure :
  • Figure :
  • ...and 44 more figures