On N-spike strings in conformal gauge with NS-NS fluxes

Abstract

Abstract The AdS 3 × S 3 string sigma model supported both by NS-NS and R-R fluxes has become a well known integrable model, however a putative dual field theory description remains incomplete. We study the anomalous dimensions of twist operators in this theory via semiclassical string methods. We describe the construction of a multi-cusp closed string in conformal gauge moving in AdS 3 with fluxes, which supposedly is dual to a general higher twist operator. After analyzing the string profiles and conserved charges for the string, we find the exact dispersion relation between the charges in the ‘long’ string limit. This dispersion relation in leading order turns out to be similar to the case of pure RR flux, with the coupling being scaled by a factor that depends on the amount of NS-NS flux turned on. We also analyse the case of pure NS flux, where the dispersion relation simplifies considerably. Furthermore, we discuss the implications of these results at length.