Covariant Loop Quantum Gravity: An Elementary Introduction to Quantum Gravity and Spinfoam TheoryQuantum gravity is among the most fascinating problems in physics. It modifies our understanding of time, space and matter. The recent development of the loop approach has allowed us to explore domains ranging from black hole thermodynamics to the early Universe. This book provides readers with a simple introduction to loop quantum gravity, centred on its covariant approach. It focuses on the physical and conceptual aspects of the problem and includes the background material needed to enter this lively domain of research, making it ideal for researchers and graduate students. Topics covered include quanta of space; classical and quantum physics without time; tetrad formalism; Holst action; lattice QCD; Regge calculus; ADM and Ashtekar variables; Ponzano-Regge and Turaev-Viro amplitudes; kinematics and dynamics of 4D Lorentzian quantum gravity; spectrum of area and volume; coherent states; classical limit; matter couplings; graviton propagator; spinfoam cosmology and black hole thermodynamics. |
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Covariant Loop Quantum Gravity: An Elementary Introduction to Quantum ... Carlo Rovelli,Francesca Vidotto No preview available - 2020 |
Common terms and phrases
2-complex action algebra Ashtekar Bianchi boundary graph chapter classical limit coherent compute configuration connection constraint cosmological constant covariant curvature defined degrees of freedom derivative described determined dimension Dirac discretization dual dynamics edges eigenvalues Einstein equations entropy equations of motion evolution faces fermion finite four-dimensional gauge invariance gauge transformations geometry given gives gravitational field group elements Hamilton function Hamilton–Jacobi equation hamiltonian Hilbert space holonomy integral lattice lattice QCD loop quantum gravity Lorentz matrix metric Minkowski Minkowski space momenta momentum nodes normal operator parameter partial observables particle phase space physical Planck scale Poisson brackets precisely quantities quantization quantum field theory quantum mechanics quantum theory Regge relation relativity representation rotations Rovelli scalar product Schr¨odinger segments solution spacetime spin spin networks spin-network spinfoam spinors surface tensor tetrad tetrahedron three-dimensional transition amplitude triad triangle vanishes variables vector vertex amplitude vertices Yang–Mills theory