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The dimension of spacetime

Citation

Rosenthal, Philip J. (1993) The dimension of spacetime. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/5q06-5105. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-03062009-162225

Abstract

The implications of string theory for the dimension of spacetime are investigated by two methods. First, a new potential class of string theories is studied, which have critical dimensions 3, 4 and 6. In particular, the partition functions of these theories are derived and interpreted using generalized GSO projection. The possible uniqueness of field assignments, as well as the bosonization of the K = 4 model are also addressed. Second, using recent ideas in string cosmology, a new model is proposed to explain why three spatial dimensions grew large. Unlike the original work of Brandenberger and Vafa, this paradigm uses the theory of random walks. A simple computer model is developed to test the implications of this new approach. It is found that a four-dimensional spacetime can be explained by the proper choice of initial conditions.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy
Major Option:Physics
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Schwarz, John H.
Group:Caltech Theory
Thesis Committee:
  • Unknown, Unknown
Defense Date:21 May 1993
Record Number:CaltechETD:etd-03062009-162225
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-03062009-162225
DOI:10.7907/5q06-5105
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:893
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Imported from ETD-db
Deposited On:09 Mar 2009
Last Modified:16 Apr 2021 23:08

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