We show that the supersymmetry algebra for supersymmetric extended objects can contain, depending on the topology of space, topological charges, the origin of which is the Wess-Zumino term in the effective action. We exhibit the consequences of these charges for the phenomenon of partial breaking of supersymmetry.

• Received 19 September 1989

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.63.2443