Remarks on partition functions of topological string theory on generalized conifolds

Abstract

The method of topological vertex for topological string theory on toric Calabi-Yau 3-folds is reviewed. Implications of an explicit formula of partition functions in the "on-strip" case, typically the generalized conifolds, are considered. Generating functions of part of the partition functions are shown to be tau functions of the KP hierarchy. The associated Baker-Akhiezer functions play the role of wave functions, and satisfy $q$-difference equations. These $q$-difference equations represent the quantum mirror curves conjectured by Gukov and Su{\l}kowski.