D-branes in a Big Bang/Big Crunch Universe: Misner Space
Abstract
We study D-branes in a two-dimensional Lorentzian orbifold R1,1/ with a discrete boost . This space is known as Misner or Milne space, and includes big crunch/big bang singularity. In this space, there are D0-branes in spiral orbits and D1-branes with or without flux on them. In particular, we observe imaginary parts of partition functions, and interpret them as the rates of open string pair creation for D0-branes and emission of winding closed strings for D1-branes. These phenomena occur due to the time-dependence of the background. Open string 2 -> 2 scattering amplitude on a D1-brane is also computed and found to be less singular than closed string case.
Turn this paper into a full lesson
ArcXiv compiles a staged curriculum from this paper: 8-12 lessons across beginner → advanced, synthesised section guides, visuals, flashcards, a quiz, exercises, and on-demand deep dives per section. Grounded in the abstract, never invented.