On the conformal field theory of the Higgs branch

Abstract

We study 1 + 1-dimensional theories of vector and hypermultiplets with (4,4) supersymmetry. Despite strong infrared fluctuations, these theories flow in general to distinct conformal field theories on the Coulomb and Higgs branches. In some cases there may be a quantum Higgs theory even when there is no classical Higgs branch. The Higgs branches of certain such theories provide a framework for a matrix model of Type IIA fivebranes and the associated exotic six-dimensional string theories. Proposals concerning the interactions of these string theories are evaluated.