ENGLISH

Quantum field theory in curved spacetime and black hole thermodynamics

By Robert M. Wald

Book information

Publisher
University of Chicago Press
Year
1994
ISBN
0226870278, 9780226870274, 0226870251
LCC
QC174.45 .W35 1994
Open Library ID
OL1087093M
Language
english
Format
DJVU
Filesize
2 MB (1603123 bytes)
Series
Chicago lectures in physics
Edition
1
Pages
218\218
Library
Kolxo3
DPI
600
Time added
2009-07-20 03:45:11

Description

In this book, Robert Wald provides a coherent, pedagogical introduction to the formulation of quantum field theory in curved spacetime. He begins with a treatment of the ordinary one-dimensional quantum harmonic oscillator, progresses through the construction of quantum field theory in flat spacetime to possible constructions of quantum field theory in curved spacetime, and, ultimately, to an algebraic formulation of the theory. In his presentation, Wald disentangles essential features of the theory from inessential ones (such as a particle interpretation) and clarifies relationships between various approaches to the formulation of the theory. He also provides a comprehensive, up-to-date account of the Unruh effect, the Hawking effect, and some of its ramifications. In particular, the subject of black hole thermodynamics, which remains an active area of research, is treated in depth. This book will be accessible to students and researchers who have had introductory courses in general relativity and quantum field theory, and will be of interest to scientists in general relativity and related fields.

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