Mesons From String Theory

After a brief historical synopsis of the connection between gauge theories and string theory is discussed, meson configurations known as $k$-strings will be discussed. $K$-strings can be examined from string theory via the gauge/gravity correspondence. Backgrounds dual to $k$-strings in both $2+1$ and $3+1$ will be discussed. The energy of $k$-strings to lowest order consists of a tension term, proportional to the length, $L$, of the $k$-string, i.e., the size of the mesons in the configuration. The first quantum correction is a Coulombic $1/L$ correction, known as a L\"uscher term, plus a constant. Acquiring tensions and L\"uscher terms via the gauge/gravity correspondence will be discussed.