# What is the relation between a $D_2$-brane and an $M2$-brane?

I am only familiar with the concept of a $$D_2$$-brane from a first course in String theory. I would like to learn, at least on a conceptual level, what an $$M2$$-brane is and what is its relation to the $$D_2$$-brane.

What I (think I) know: they are both extended (2D) objects in higher dimensional spacetimes, and I suppose that since the $$M$$ in $$M2$$-brane refers to $$M$$-theory, the $$M2$$-brane exists in supersymmetric theories, in contrast to the $$D_2$$-brane which also exists in non-supersymmetric string theory.

• Type IIA string theory is M theory with 11th dimension compactified. D2 brane is M2 brane that is not wrapped around that compact dimension. – Mitchell Porter Apr 1 at 23:48
• @MitchellPorter thanks for the comment. So, where does SUSY come into play then? – LORENTZo_lamas Apr 2 at 0:17
• There is no particular relationship. Both M-theory and Type IIA string theory are supersymmetric in their uncompactified forms, but can lose some or all of that supersymmetry when compactified or otherwise modified. – Mitchell Porter Apr 2 at 3:59