Constraint-Free Analysis of Relativistic Strings

A general solution of the equations of motion for a classical relativistic string in Minkowski space is presented. For an 'open' string the solution is determined by a single real null curve which satisfies a quasi-periodicity condition. A formula is deduced which generates all such curves in terms of freely specifiable functions. For a 'closed' string two such curves are required. The theory establishes a rigorous basis for the numerical investigation of 'cosmic strings', and also forms a starting point for a constraint-free Lorentz covariant analysis of the quantum relativistic theory.