Multigraviton Scattering in the Matrix Model

TL;DR

The paper investigates a 3→3 multigraviton scattering test of the BFSS matrix model against eleven-dimensional supergravity and bosonic string theory. In the matrix model, power counting indicates the leading $1/(R^7 r^7)$ term cannot be generated, while explicit supergravity and string computations yield a nonzero coefficient for the corresponding term, revealing a discrepancy. The authors compute the amplitude via supergravity and confirm agreement with the bosonic string result, but the matrix model appears unable to reproduce this contribution, prompting discussion of possible finite-$N$ (DLCQ) effects, contact-term corrections, or limitations of the current formulation. The work highlights potential limits of the matrix model in reproducing classical supergravity in the low-energy, large-separation regime and suggests avenues for reconciliation, including examining the infinite-momentum limit and related background issues, with note of subsequent related findings in curved backgrounds.

Abstract

We consider scattering processes in the matrix model with three incoming and three outgoing gravitons. We find a discrepancy between the amplitude calculated from the matrix model and the supergravity prediction. Possible sources for this discrepancy are discussed.

Figures (3)

• Figure 1: One of the Feynman diagrams of the matrix model.
• Figure 2: The supergravity graphs
• Figure 3: The gravity graph corresponding to the one-loop iteration.