Dijkgraaf, RobbertVafa, Cumrun2019-09-222002Dijkgraaf, Robbert, and Cumrun Vafa. 2002. “Matrix Models, Topological Strings, and Supersymmetric Gauge Theories.” Nuclear Physics B 644 (1–2): 3–20. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0550-3213(02)00766-6.0169-68230550-32131873-1562http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:41385086We 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.en-USJournal Article2019-09-2210.1016/S0550-3213(02)00766-6