Cos(M)ological Solutions in M- and String Theory

Abstract

We consider solutions to the cosmological equations of motion in 11 dimensions with and without 4-form charges. We show explicitly the correspondence between some of these solutions and known solutions in 10 dimensional string gravity. New solutions involving combinations of 4-form charges are explored. We also speculate on the possibility of removing curvature singularities present in 10D theories by oxidizing to 11D.

29 pages, latex, 15 ps figures, restored a missing sign in terms proportional to $Q^2$, leading to some alterations in quantitative statements, but without qualitative changes in conclusions