We propose a new way of obtaining slow-roll inflation in the context ofhigher dimensional models motivated by string and M theory. In our model, allextra spatial dimensions are orbifolded. The initial conditions are taken to bea hot dense bulk brane gas which drives an initial phase of isotropic bulkexpansion. This phase ends when a weak potential between the orbifold fixedplanes begins to dominate. For a wide class of potentials, a period duringwhich the bulk dimensions decrease sufficiently slowly to lead to slow-rollinflation of the three dimensions parallel to the orbifold fixed planes willresult. Once the separation between the orbifold fixed planes becomes of thestring scale, a repulsive potential due to string effects takes over and leadsto a stabilization of the radion modes. The conversion of bulk branes intoradiation during the phase of bulk contraction leads to reheating.
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