S-Dual of Maxwell-Chern-Simons Theory

We discuss the dynamics of three-dimensional Maxwell theory coupled to a level -k Chern-Simons term. Motivated by S-duality in string theory, we argue that the theory admits an S-dual description. The S-dual theory contains a nongauge one-form field, previously proposed by Deser and Jackiw [Phys. Lett. 139B, 371 (1984).] and a level -k U(1) Chern-Simons term, Z(MCS) = Z(DJ)Z(CS). The couplings to external electric and magnetic currents and their string theory realizations are also discussed.

Automated summary

We discuss the dynamics of 3-dimensional Maxwell theory coupled to a level -k Chern-Simons term and propose an S-dual description motivated by string theory. The S-dual theory includes a nongauge one-form field, previously proposed by Deser and Jackiw, and a level -k U(1) Chern-Simons term. We also discuss the couplings to external electric and magnetic currents and their string theory realizations.