Solution (source code)

= Solution

Because the <gamma function> has simple poles at the nonpositive integers and no zeros, the $s$-dependent numerator $\Gamma(-\alpha's/4)$ has poles at
$$
-\frac{\alpha's}{4}=-n,
\qquad n=0,1,2,\ldots,
$$
or
$$
\boxed{s=M_n^2=\frac{4n}{\alpha'}}.
$$
Factorization of a scattering amplitude identifies each pole with an intermediate on-shell state. The <Type II superstring mass spectrum> therefore contains a massless level at $n=0$ and an infinite equally spaced tower in squared mass for $n\geq1$. There is no negative-$M^2$ pole, consistently with the absence of a tachyon in <Type II superstring theory>.