Matrix models, topological strings, and supersymmetric gauge theories

We show that B-model topological strings on local Calabi-Yau threefolds are large-N duals of matrix models, which in the planar limit naturally give rise to special geometry. These matrix models directly compute F-terms in an associated N = 1 supersymmetric gauge theory, obtained by deforming N = 2 theories by a superpotential term that can be directly identified with the potential of the matrix model. Moreover by tuning some of the parameters of the geometry in a double scaling limit we recover (p, q) conformal minimal models coupled to 2d gravity, thereby relating non-critical string theories to type 11 superstrings on Calabi-Yatt backgrounds. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.