Quantum gravity is perhaps the most important open problem in fundamental physics. It is the problem of merging quantum mechanics and general relativity, the two great conceptual revolutions in the physics of the twentieth century. The loop and spinfoam approach, presented in this 2004 book, is one of the leading research programs in the field. The first part of the book discusses the reformulation of the basis of classical and quantum Hamiltonian physics required by general relativity. The second part covers the basic technical research directions. Appendices include a detailed history of the subject of quantum gravity, hard-to-find mathematical material, and a discussion of some philosophical issues raised by the subject. This fascinating text is ideal for graduate students entering the field, as well as researchers already working in quantum gravity. It will also appeal to philosophers and other scholars interested in the nature of space and time.
Les mer
Preface; Acknowledgements; Terminology and notation; Part I. Relativistic Foundations: 1. General ideas and heuristic picture; 2. General relativity; 3. Mechanics; 4. Hamiltonian general relativity; 5. Quantum mechanics; Part II. Loop Quantum Gravity: 6. Quantum space; 7. Dynamics and matter; 8. Applications; 9. Quantum spacetime: spinfoams; 10. Conclusion; Part III. Appendices: References; Index.
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'In spite of its sociological success string theory is still far from a solution of the problem of quantum gravity which should be considered as wide open. The book of Carlo Rovelli provides the basis, both at the technical and the conceptual level, for research in this fundamental problem of physics. The basic issues are clearly and deeply analyzed without any dogmatic stand and with great freedom of thoughts resulting in an invaluable opportunity to learn and think for both mathematicians and physicists.' Alain Connes, Collège de France, I.H.E.S. and Vanderbilt University
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This 2004 book presents the loop and spinfoam approach to quantum gravity, for graduates and researchers.
Produktdetaljer
ISBN
9780521715966
Publisert
2007-11-29
Utgiver
Vendor
Cambridge University Press
Vekt
790 gr
Høyde
241 mm
Bredde
170 mm
Dybde
28 mm
Aldersnivå
P, 06
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Heftet
Antall sider
488
Forfatter