Berlin 2005 – scientific programme

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MP: Theoretische und Mathematische Grundlagen der Physik

MP 4: Quantum Field Theory and String Theory

MP 4.6: Fachvortrag

Tuesday, March 8, 2005, 15:40–16:00, TU MA043

Nonabelian 2-Forms: Strings, Loop Space, Gerbes and 2-Bundles — •Urs Schreiber — Universität Duisburg-Essen, 45177 Essen

The higher-order generalization of gauge theory involves nonabelian 2-forms coupled to worldsheets instead of 1-forms coupled worldlines. Such theories arise notably on stacks of M/NS 5-branes.

The investigation of such higher gauge theories involves a fascinating interplay between the physics of strings and mathematical concepts like fiber bundles over loop spaces, categorified fiber bundles (2-bundles) and nonabelian gerbes.

We give a brief overview and present recent insights.