ar X iv : h ep - t h / 02 10 26 1 v 1 2 8 O ct 2 00 2 On the quantum matrix string ∗

ar X iv : h ep - t h / 02 10 25 1 v 1 2 6 O ct 2 00 2 Thermodynamics of 2 D string theory

We calculate the free energy, energy and entropy in the matrix quantum mechanical formulation of 2D string theory in a background strongly perturbed by tachyons with the imaginary Minkowskian momentum ±i/R (“Sine-Liouville” theory). The system shows a thermodynamical behaviour corresponding to the temperature T = 1/(2πR). We show that the microscopically calculated energy of the system satisfie...

ar X iv : h ep - t h / 02 11 04 8 v 1 7 N ov 2 00 2 Inflation , Quantum Cosmology and the Anthropic Principle 1

ar X iv : h ep - t h / 05 10 19 2 v 1 2 2 O ct 2 00 5 p - adic Strings and their Applications 1

The theory of p-adic strings is reviewed along with some of their applications , foremost among them to the tachyon condensation problem in string theory. Some open problems are discussed, in particular that of the super-string in 10 dimensions as the end-stage of the 26-dimensional closed bosonic string's tachyon condensation.

ar X iv : h ep - t h / 05 10 19 2 v 2 2 7 O ct 2 00 5 p - adic Strings and their Applications 1

The theory of p-adic strings is reviewed along with some of their applications , foremost among them to the tachyon condensation problem in string theory. Some open problems are discussed, in particular that of the super-string in 10 dimensions as the end-stage of the 26-dimensional closed bosonic string's tachyon condensation.

ar X iv : h ep - t h / 02 10 16 2 v 1 1 7 O ct 2 00 2 To see a world in a grain of sand

Throughout John Wheeler's career, he wrestled with big issues like the fundamental length, the black hole and the unification of quantum mechanics and relativity. In this essay, I argue that solid state physics – historically the study of silicon, semiconductors and sand grains – can give surprisingly deep insights into the big questions of the world.