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arXiv · hep-th/9712166

New M-theory Backgrounds with Frozen Moduli

Michael Dine·Eva Silverstein
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Abstract

We propose examples, which involve orbifolds by elements of the U-duality group, with M-theory moduli fixed at the eleven-dimensional Planck scale. We begin by reviewing asymmetric orbifold constructions in perturbative string theory, which fix radial moduli at the string scale. Then we consider non-perturbative aspects of those backgrounds (brane probes and the orbifold action from the eleven-dimensional point of view). This leads us to consider mutually non-perturbative group actions. Using a combination of dualities, matrix theory, and ideas for the generalization of the perturbative orbifold prescription, we present evidence that the examples we construct are consistent M-theory backgrounds. In particular we argue that there should be consistent non-supersymmetric compactifications of M-theory.

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Michael Dine, Eva Silverstein. 1997-12-22. New M-theory Backgrounds with Frozen Moduli. https://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/9712166

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