Hosotani model in closed-string theory

Abstract

The Hosotani mechanism in the closed-string theory with current algebra symmetry is described by the (old covariant) operator method. We compare the gauge symmetry breaking mechanism in a string theory which contains SU(2) symmetry originated from current algebra with the one in an equivalent compactified closed-string theory. We also investigate the difference between the Hosotani mechanism and the Higgs mechanism in closed-string theories by calculation of a four-point amplitude of `Higgs' bosons at tree level.