We investigate Seiberg’s $N=1\mathrm{}$ field theory duality for four-dimensional supersymmetric QCD with the $M$-theory 5-brane. We find that the $M$-theory configuration for the magnetic dual theory arises via a smooth deformation of the $M$-theory configuration for the electric theory. The creation of Dirichlet 4-branes as Neveu-Schwarz 5-branes are passed through each other in type IIA string theory is given an elegant derivation from $M$ theory.

• Received 28 August 1997

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.57.6455