We derive the equations of motion for general strings, i.e., strings with arbitrary relation between tension τ and energy per unit length ε. The renormalization of τ and ε that results from averaging out small scale wiggles on the string is obtained in the general case to lowest order in the amount of wiggliness. For Nambu-Goto strings we find deviations from the equation of state ετ=const in higher orders. Finally we argue that wiggliness may radically modify the cosmic gauge string scenario.

• Received 20 April 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.69.2611