On the Eleventh Dimension of String Theory

Abstract

An explanation of the origin of the hidden eleventh dimension in string theory is given. It is shown that any two sigma models describing the propagation of string backgrounds are related to each other by a Weyl transformation of the world-sheet metric. To avoid this ambiguity in defining two-dimensional sigma models, extra fields are needed. An interesting connection is established with Abelian T-duality.

8 pages, Latex