Mixed global anomalies and boundary conformal field theories

Abstract

Abstract We consider the relation between mixed global gauge gravitational anomalies and boundary conformal field theory in WZW models for simple Lie groups. The discrete symmetries of consideration are the centers of the simple Lie groups. These mixed anomalies prevent gauging them i.e, taking the orbifold by the center. The absence of anomalies impose conditions on the levels of WZW models. Next, we study the conformal boundary conditions for the original theories. We consider the existence of a conformal boundary state invariant under the action of the center. This also gives conditions on the levels of WZW models. By considering the combined action of the center and charge conjugation on boundary states, we reproduce the condition obtained in the orbifold analysis.