Quantum Gravity: From Theory to Experimental Search - Couverture rigide

Couverture rigide

ISBN 10 : 354040810X ISBN 13 : 9783540408109

Editeur : Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. K, 2003

Synopsis

The relation between quantum theory and the theory of gravitation remains one of the most outstanding unresolved issues of modern physics. According to general expectation, general relativity as well as quantum (field) theory in a fixed background spacetime cannot be fundamentally correct. Hence there should exist a broader theory comprising both in appropriate limits, i.e., quantum gravity. This book gives readers a comprehensive introduction accessible to interested non-experts to the main issues surrounding the search for quantum gravity. These issues relate to fundamental questions concerning the various formalisms of quantization; specific questions concerning concrete processes, like gravitational collapse or black-hole evaporation; and the all important question concerning the possibility of experimental tests of quantum-gravity effects.

A propos du livre

Présentation de l'éditeur

The search for a quantum theory of the gravitational field is one of the great open problems in theoretical physics. This book presents a self-contained discussion of the concepts, methods and applications that can be expected in such a theory. The two main approaches to its construction -- the direct quantisation of Einstein's general theory of relativity and string theory -- are covered. Whereas the first attempts to construct a viable theory for the gravitational field alone, string theory assumes that a quantum theory of gravity will be achieved only through a unification of all the interactions. However, both employ the general method of quantization of constrained systems, which is described together with illustrative examples relevant for quantum gravity. There is a detailed presentation of the main approaches employed in quantum general relativity: path-integral quantization, the background-field method and canonical quantum gravity in the metric, connection and loop formulations. The discussion of string theory centres around its quantum-gravitational aspects and the comparison with quantum general relativity. Physical applications discussed at length include the quantization of black holes, quantum cosmology, the indications of a discrete structure of spacetime, and the origin of irreversibility. The second edition will add some sections on topical issues. These include loop quantum cosmology, dynamical triangulation, renormalization-group approach, primordial black holes, and information-loss problem for black holes. The second edition will also contain some pedagogical extensions. This book will be of interest to researchers and students working in relativity and gravitation, cosmology, quantum field theory and related topics. It will also be of interest to mathematicians and philosophers of science.

Revue de presse

This book maintains a high level of clarity throughout, and is written with admirable patience. It will be found very useful by a begining researcher in quantum gravity who wants to have a comprehensive overview of the subject. Equally well, senior researchers in the field will find it a handy reference for standard analyses of various aspects of the subject. Gen.Realtiv.Gravi. (2006) 38(1): 183-185

Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. K
• Date d'édition: 2003
• Langue: anglais
• ISBN 10: 354040810X
• ISBN 13: 9783540408109
• Reliure: Relié
• Nombre de pages: 414
• Éditeur: Giulini Domenico J. W., Kiefer Claus, Lämmerzahl Claus
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible
• Personne responsable: CMN Printpool Inh. Mathis Neumann; https://www.also.com/ec/cms5/en_6000/6000/index.jsp; ; Friedrich-Karl-Str. 9; Hamburg; Allemagne