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402-0897-00L 6 Credits MSC D-PHYS
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Introduction to String Theory

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Matthias Gaberdiel
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:24:12

Abstract

First introduction to string theory.

Objective

The basic concepts of string theory will be explained with the example of the bosonic string. In addition, the ten-dimensional superstring theories will be described, and their duality relations will be explained.

Content

Basics of string theory, including (1) The quantisation of the bosonic- and superstring (covariant and light-cone quantisation); (2) Description of the ten-dimensional superstrings (Type II strings and heterotic strings); (3) Compactification and T-duality, low-energy description of string theory in terms of supergravity theories; (4) World-sheet description of strings in terms of conformal field theory; (5) D-branes and string duality

Resources

Literature

M.B. Green, J.H. Schwarz, E. Witten, Superstring Theory I, CUP (1987). D. Lust, S. Theisen, Lectures on String Theory, Lecture Notes in Physics, Springer (1989). J. Polchinski, String Theory I & II, CUP (1998). B. Zwiebach, A First Course in String Theory, CUP (2004).

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 20 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Introduction to String Theory
  • Tue 08:45-10:30 (HPK D 24.2)
2 h weekly
exercise Introduction to String Theory
or by appt.
  • Wed 09:45-10:30 (HIT F 31.2)
1 h weekly

Offered In