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Use of Superspace Geometry to Find All Supergravity Theories: Case of N = 4 and SO(4) Symmetry

Citation

Zwiebach, Barton (1983) Use of Superspace Geometry to Find All Supergravity Theories: Case of N = 4 and SO(4) Symmetry. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/PC47-EM20. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-12072004-143533

Abstract

The main subject of this thesis is the study of the N = 4 supergravity theories. Superspace geometry is used to search for all N = 4 supergravities with at least SO(4) global symmetry. It is found that the general solution to the unconstrained Bianchi Identities, with the field content of N = 4 supergravity, are equivalent to the known SO(4) and SU(4) supergravities up to field redefinitions. Therefore the field content determines uniquely the N = 4 theories and further constraints are not necessary.

The SO(4) supergravity is gauged with two coupling constants and a new theory with positive cosmological constant and spontaneous breaking of the four supersymmetries is found. The presence of scalar fields in the kinetic term of the vectors is seen to make the values of the physical gauge coupling constants depend on the choice of vacuum.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Subject Keywords:Physics
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy
Major Option:Physics
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Gell-Mann, Murray
Thesis Committee:
  • Gell-Mann, Murray (chair)
  • Schwarz, John H.
  • Peck, Charles W.
  • Goldreich, Peter Martin
Defense Date:19 May 1983
Record Number:CaltechETD:etd-12072004-143533
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-12072004-143533
DOI:10.7907/PC47-EM20
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:4825
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Imported from ETD-db
Deposited On:08 Dec 2004
Last Modified:20 Dec 2019 20:03

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