Equations of Associativity in Two-Dimensional Topological Field Theory as Integrable Hamiltonian Nondiagonalizable Systems of Hydrodynamic Type

Abstract

Equations of associativity in two-dimensional topological field theory (they are known also as the Witten-Dijkgraaf-H.Verlinde-E.Verlinde (WDVV) system) are represented as an example of the general theory of integrable Hamiltonian nondiagonalizable (i.e., do not possessing Riemann invariants) systems of hydrodynamic type. A corresponding local nondegenerate Hamiltonian structure of hydrodynamic type (Poisson bracket of Dubrovin-Novikov type) is found. For n=3 the equations of associativity are reduced to the integrable three wave system by a chain of explicit transformations. Any solution of the integrable three wave system generates solutions of the equations of associativity. Explicit B\"acklund type transformations connecting solutions of different equations of associativity are found.