Extremal $1/2$ Calabi–Yau $3$-folds and six-dimensional F-theory applications

Abstract

We discuss a method for classifying the singularity types of 1/2 Calabi-Yau 3-folds, a family of rational elliptic 3-folds introduced in a previous study in relation to various U(1) factors in 6D F-theory models. A projective dual pair of del Pezzo manifolds recently studied by Mukai is used to analyze the singularity types. In particular, we studied the maximal rank seven singularity types of 1/2 Calabi-Yau 3-folds. The structures of the singular fibers are analyzed using blow-ups. Double covers of the 1/2 Calabi-Yau 3-folds yield elliptic Calabi-Yau 3-folds and applications to six-dimensional $N = 1$ F-theory on the Calabi-Yau 3-folds are also discussed. The deduced singular fibers have applications in studying the gauge groups formed in 6D F-theory compactifications. The blow-up methods used to analyze the singular fibers and sections utilized in this research might have applications in studying the U(1) factors and hypermultiplets charged under U(1) in 6D F-theory.