Palatini variation in generalized geometry and string effective actions (Q6115713)

The authors develop the Palatini formalism within the framework of a generalized Riemannian geometry of Courant algebroids. In the approach known as the Palatini variation, the action corresponding to field equations is a spacetime integral of the scalar curvature. In this context, one had to consider a general torsion-free affine connection. Let \(M\) be a Riemannian manifold with a metric \(g\). First, the authors introduce the required tools. Then, they recall the notions of a Courant algebroid, generalized metrics and courant algebroid connections. They show how ordinary affine connections can naturally be generalizd to Courant algebroid connections. Then, they extend the Palatini method to the setting of the generalized Riemannian geometry of Courant algebroids. The proof of the main results is given in detail and examples are also discussed.