Quantum Statistical Processes in the Early Universe
Abstract
We show how the concept of quantum open system and the methods in non-equilibrium statistical mechanics can be usefully applied to studies of quantum statistical processes in the early universe. We first sketch how noise, fluctuation, dissipation and decoherence processes arise in a wide range of cosmological problems. We then focus on the origin and nature of noise in quantum fields and spacetime dynamics. We introduce the concept of geometrodynamic noise and suggest a statistical mechanical definition of gravitational entropy. We end with a brief discussion of the theoretical appropriateness to view the physical universe as an open system.
Cite
@article{arxiv.gr-qc/9302031,
title = {Quantum Statistical Processes in the Early Universe},
author = {B. L. Hu},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:gr-qc/9302031},
year = {2009}
}
Comments
umdpp 93-59, 23 pages, Latex Invited Talk at the Conference on {\it Quantum Physics and the Universe} Waseda University, Tokyo, August 1992. Proceedings edited by M. Namiki, K. Maeda, et al (Pergamon Press, Tokyo, 1993)