Loop Variables and the (Free) Open String in a Curved Background

Abstract

Using the loop variable formalism as applied to a sigma model in curved target space, we give a systematic method for writing down gauge and generally covariant equations of motion for the modes of the free open string in curved space. The equations are obtained by covariantizing the flat space equation and then demanding gauge invariance, which introduces additional curvature couplings. As an illustration of the procedure, the spin two case is worked out explicitly.