D-Particle Dynamics and The Space-Time Uncertainty Relation

Abstract

We argue that the space-time uncertainty relation of the form $\Delta X \Delta T \gtrsim \alpha'$ for the observability of the distances with respect to time, $\Delta T$, and space, $\Delta X$, is universally valid in string theory including D-branes. This relation has been previously proposed by one (T.Y.) of the present authors as a simple qualitative representation of the perturbative short distance structure of fundamental string theory. We show that the relation, combined with the usual quantum mechanical uncertainty principle, explains the key qualitative features of D-particle dynamics.