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arXiv · hep-th/0302159

Open strings in relativistic ion traps

B. Durin·B. Pioline
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Abstract

Electromagnetic plane waves provide examples of time-dependent open string backgrounds free of $α'$ corrections. The solvable case of open strings in a quadrupolar wave front, analogous to pp-waves for closed strings, is discussed. In light-cone gauge, it leads to non-conformal boundary conditions similar to those induced by tachyon condensates. A maximum electric gradient is found, at which macroscopic strings with vanishing tension are pair-produced -- a non-relativistic analogue of the Born-Infeld critical electric field. Kinetic instabilities of quadrupolar electric fields are cured by standard atomic physics techniques, and do not interfere with the former dynamic instability. A new example of non-conformal open-closed duality is found. Propagation of open strings in time-dependent wave fronts is discussed.

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B. Durin, B. Pioline. 2003-04-04. Open strings in relativistic ion traps. https://doi.org/10.1088/1126-6708%2F2003%2F05%2F035

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