Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics

A special issue of Universe (ISSN 2218-1997). This special issue belongs to the section "Mathematical Physics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2022) | Viewed by 17791

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Guest Editor
Center for Information Technology (WWU IT), University of Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
Interests: supersymmetry; quantum groups; C*-algebra; multigravity; supermanifold

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Guest Editor
Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2033, Australia
Interests: supersymmetry; non-abelian gauge theories; gravity

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Quantum field theory has achieved some extraordinary successes over the past sixty years, yet it retains a set of challenging problems. It is not yet able to describe gravity in a mathematically consistent manner. CP violation remains unexplained. Grand unified theories have been eliminated by experiment, and a viable unification model has yet to replace them. Even the highly successful quantum chromodynamics, despite significant computational achievements, struggles to provide theoretical insight into the low-energy regime of quark physics, where the nature and structure of hadrons are determined. The only proposal for resolving the fine-tuning problem, low-energy supersymmetry, has been eliminated by results from the LHC.

However, new ideas are available and approaching maturity. In quantum gravity, for example, naive treatment of metric perturbations such as the gravitational quanta has given way to recognizing the importance of vierbein, with insightful inroads into local quantization of the Poincare group. An approach to unifying gravity with the gauge theories has emerged which is based on braid groups. Covariant techniques for identifying dominant subgroups in gauge theory dynamics have gained recognition, and a generalization of Hamiltonian dynamics offers a fresh way to identify and treat the topological degrees of freedom.

Since mathematics is the true and proper language for quantitative physical models, we expect new mathematical constructions to provide insight into physical phenomena and fresh approaches for building physical theories.

Dr. Steven Duplij
Dr. Michael L. Walker
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • gravity
  • Clairaut equation
  • Cho-Duan-Ge decomposition
  • constraintless formalism
  • polyadic algebraic systems

Published Papers (11 papers)

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Editorial

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2 pages, 156 KiB  
Editorial
Editorial: Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics
by Michael L. Walker and Steven Duplij
Universe 2022, 8(11), 572; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8110572 - 30 Oct 2022
Viewed by 741
Abstract
“Selected topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics” is for physicists wanting a fresh perspective into quantum gravity [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)

Research

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21 pages, 388 KiB  
Article
Wheeler-DeWitt Equation and the Applicability of Crypto-Hermitian Interaction Representation in Quantum Cosmology
by Miloslav Znojil
Universe 2022, 8(7), 385; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8070385 - 20 Jul 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1472
Abstract
In the broader methodical framework of the quantization of gravity, the crypto-Hermitian (or non-Hermitian) version of Dirac’s interaction picture is considered. The formalism is briefly outlined and shown to be well suited for an innovative treatment of certain cosmological models. In particular, it [...] Read more.
In the broader methodical framework of the quantization of gravity, the crypto-Hermitian (or non-Hermitian) version of Dirac’s interaction picture is considered. The formalism is briefly outlined and shown to be well suited for an innovative treatment of certain cosmological models. In particular, it is demonstrated that the Wheeler-DeWitt equation could be a promising candidate for the description of the evolution of the quantized Universe near its initial Big Bang singularity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
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23 pages, 399 KiB  
Article
Superposition Principle and Kirchhoff’s Integral Theorem
by Mikhail I. Krivoruchenko
Universe 2022, 8(6), 315; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8060315 - 03 Jun 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1616
Abstract
The need for modification of the Huygens–Fresnel superposition principle arises even in the description of the free fields of massive particles and, more extensively, in nonlinear field theories. A wide range of formulations and superposition schemes for secondary waves are captured by Kirchhoff’s [...] Read more.
The need for modification of the Huygens–Fresnel superposition principle arises even in the description of the free fields of massive particles and, more extensively, in nonlinear field theories. A wide range of formulations and superposition schemes for secondary waves are captured by Kirchhoff’s integral theorem. We discuss various versions of this theorem as well as its connection with the superposition principle and the method of Green’s functions. A superposition scheme inherent in linear field theories, which is not based on Kirchhoff’s integral theorem but instead relies on the completeness condition, is also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
27 pages, 397 KiB  
Article
Einstein Field Equation, Recursion Operators, Noether and Master Symmetries in Conformable Poisson Manifolds
by Mahouton Norbert Hounkonnou, Mahougnon Justin Landalidji and Melanija Mitrović
Universe 2022, 8(4), 247; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8040247 - 17 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1630
Abstract
We show that a Minkowski phase space endowed with a bracket relatively to a conformable differential realizes a Poisson algebra, confering a bi-Hamiltonian structure to the resulting manifold. We infer that the related Hamiltonian vector field is an infinitesimal Noether symmetry, and compute [...] Read more.
We show that a Minkowski phase space endowed with a bracket relatively to a conformable differential realizes a Poisson algebra, confering a bi-Hamiltonian structure to the resulting manifold. We infer that the related Hamiltonian vector field is an infinitesimal Noether symmetry, and compute the corresponding deformed recursion operator. Besides, using the Hamiltonian–Jacobi separability, we construct recursion operators for Hamiltonian vector fields in conformable Poisson–Schwarzschild and Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) manifolds, and derive the related constants of motion, Christoffel symbols, components of Riemann and Ricci tensors, Ricci constant and components of Einstein tensor. We highlight the existence of a hierarchy of bi-Hamiltonian structures in both the manifolds, and compute a family of recursion operators and master symmetries generating the constants of motion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
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15 pages, 274 KiB  
Article
Maxwell’s Equations in Homogeneous Spaces for Admissible Electromagnetic Fields
by Valery V. Obukhov
Universe 2022, 8(4), 245; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8040245 - 15 Apr 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1584
Abstract
Maxwell’s vacuum equations are integrated for admissible electromagnetic fields in homogeneous spaces. Admissible electromagnetic fields are those for which the space group generates an algebra of symmetry operators (integrals of motion) that is isomorphic to the algebra of group operators. Two frames associated [...] Read more.
Maxwell’s vacuum equations are integrated for admissible electromagnetic fields in homogeneous spaces. Admissible electromagnetic fields are those for which the space group generates an algebra of symmetry operators (integrals of motion) that is isomorphic to the algebra of group operators. Two frames associated with the group of motions are used to obtain systems of ordinary differential equations to which Maxwell’s equations reduce. The solutions are obtained in quadratures. The potentials of the admissible electromagnetic fields and the metrics of the spaces contained in the obtained solutions depend on six arbitrary time functions, so it is possible to use them to integrate field equations in the theory of gravity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
21 pages, 432 KiB  
Article
Polyadic Analogs of Direct Product
by Steven Duplij
Universe 2022, 8(4), 230; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8040230 - 08 Apr 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1369
Abstract
We propose a generalization of the external direct product concept to polyadic algebraic structures which introduces novel properties in two ways: the arity of the product can differ from that of the constituents, and the elements from different multipliers can be “entangled” such [...] Read more.
We propose a generalization of the external direct product concept to polyadic algebraic structures which introduces novel properties in two ways: the arity of the product can differ from that of the constituents, and the elements from different multipliers can be “entangled” such that the product is no longer componentwise. The main property which we want to preserve is associativity, which is gained by using the associativity quiver technique, which was provided previously. For polyadic semigroups and groups we introduce two external products: (1) the iterated direct product, which is componentwise but can have an arity that is different from the multipliers and (2) the hetero product (power), which is noncomponentwise and constructed by analogy with the heteromorphism concept introduced earlier. We show in which cases the product of polyadic groups can itself be a polyadic group. In the same way, the external product of polyadic rings and fields is generalized. The most exotic case is the external product of polyadic fields, which can be a polyadic field (as opposed to the binary fields), in which all multipliers are zeroless fields. Many illustrative concrete examples are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
78 pages, 1172 KiB  
Article
Linear Superposition as a Core Theorem of Quantum Empiricism
by Yurii V. Brezhnev
Universe 2022, 8(4), 217; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8040217 - 28 Mar 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2161
Abstract
Clarifying the nature of the quantum state |Ψ is at the root of the problems with insight into counter-intuitive quantum postulates. We provide a direct—and math-axiom free—empirical derivation of this object as an element of a vector space. Establishing the linearity [...] Read more.
Clarifying the nature of the quantum state |Ψ is at the root of the problems with insight into counter-intuitive quantum postulates. We provide a direct—and math-axiom free—empirical derivation of this object as an element of a vector space. Establishing the linearity of this structure—quantum superposition—is based on a set-theoretic creation of ensemble formations and invokes the following three principia: (I) quantum statics, (II) doctrine of the number in the physical theory, and (III) mathematization of matching the two observations with each other (quantum covariance). All of the constructs rest upon a formalization of the minimal experimental entity—the registered micro-event, detector click. This is sufficient for producing the ℂ-numbers, axioms of linear vector space (superposition principle), statistical mixtures of states, eigenstates and their spectra, and non-commutativity of observables. No use is required of the spatio-temporal concepts. As a result, the foundations of theory are liberated to a significant extent from the issues associated with physical interpretations, philosophical exegeses, and mathematical reconstruction of the entire quantum edifice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
10 pages, 266 KiB  
Article
Abelianized Structures in Spherically Symmetric Hypersurface Deformations
by Martin Bojowald
Universe 2022, 8(3), 184; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8030184 - 15 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1371
Abstract
In canonical gravity, general covariance is implemented by hypersurface-deformation symmetries on thephase space. The different versions of hypersurface deformations required for full covariance have complicated interplays with one another, governed by non-Abelian brackets with structure functions. For spherically symmetric space-times, it is possible [...] Read more.
In canonical gravity, general covariance is implemented by hypersurface-deformation symmetries on thephase space. The different versions of hypersurface deformations required for full covariance have complicated interplays with one another, governed by non-Abelian brackets with structure functions. For spherically symmetric space-times, it is possible to identify a certain Abelian substructure within general hypersurface deformations, which suggests a simplified realization as a Lie algebra. The generators of this substructure can be quantized more easily than full hypersurface deformations, but the symmetries they generate do not directly correspond to hypersurface deformations. The availability of consistent quantizations therefore does not guarantee general covariance or a meaningful quantum notion thereof. In addition to placing the Abelian substructure within the full context of spherically symmetric hypersurface deformation, this paper points out several subtleties relevant for attempted applications in quantized space-time structures. In particular, it follows that recent constructions by Gambini, Olmedo, and Pullin in an Abelianized setting fail to address the covariance crisis of loop quantum gravity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
14 pages, 315 KiB  
Article
Gauge Gravity Vacuum in Constraintless Clairaut-Type Formalism
by Michael L. Walker and Steven Duplij
Universe 2022, 8(3), 176; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8030176 - 10 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1476
Abstract
The gauged Lorentz theory with torsion has been argued to have an effective theory whose non-trivial background is responsible for background gravitational curvature if torsion is treated as a quantum-mechanical variable against a background of constant curvature. We use the CDG decomposition to [...] Read more.
The gauged Lorentz theory with torsion has been argued to have an effective theory whose non-trivial background is responsible for background gravitational curvature if torsion is treated as a quantum-mechanical variable against a background of constant curvature. We use the CDG decomposition to argue that such a background can be found without including torsion. Adapting our previously published Clairaut-based treatment of QCD, we go on to study the implications for second quantisation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
12 pages, 277 KiB  
Article
Semiheaps and Ternary Algebras in Quantum Mechanics Revisited
by Andrew James Bruce
Universe 2022, 8(1), 56; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8010056 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1976
Abstract
We re-examine the appearance of semiheaps and (para-associative) ternary algebras in quantum mechanics. In particular, we review the construction of a semiheap on a Hilbert space and the set of bounded operators on a Hilbert space. The new aspect of this work is [...] Read more.
We re-examine the appearance of semiheaps and (para-associative) ternary algebras in quantum mechanics. In particular, we review the construction of a semiheap on a Hilbert space and the set of bounded operators on a Hilbert space. The new aspect of this work is a discussion of how symmetries of a quantum system induce homomorphisms of the relevant semiheaps and ternary algebras. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)

Review

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110 pages, 1134 KiB  
Review
Quantum Current Algebra in Action: Linearization, Integrability of Classical and Factorization of Quantum Nonlinear Dynamical Systems
by Anatolij K. Prykarpatski
Universe 2022, 8(5), 288; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/universe8050288 - 20 May 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1443
Abstract
This review is devoted to the universal algebraic and geometric properties of the non-relativistic quantum current algebra symmetry and to their representations subject to applications in describing geometrical and analytical properties of quantum and classical integrable Hamiltonian systems of theoretical and mathematical physics. [...] Read more.
This review is devoted to the universal algebraic and geometric properties of the non-relativistic quantum current algebra symmetry and to their representations subject to applications in describing geometrical and analytical properties of quantum and classical integrable Hamiltonian systems of theoretical and mathematical physics. The Fock space, the non-relativistic quantum current algebra symmetry and its cyclic representations on separable Hilbert spaces are reviewed and described in detail. The unitary current algebra family of operators and generating functional equations are described. A generating functional method to constructing irreducible current algebra representations is reviewed, and the ergodicity of the corresponding representation Hilbert space measure is mentioned. The algebraic properties of the so called coherent states are also reviewed, generated by cyclic representations of the Heisenberg algebra on Hilbert spaces. Unbelievable and impressive applications of coherent states to the theory of nonlinear dynamical systems on Hilbert spaces are described, along with their linearization and integrability. Moreover, we present a further development of these results within the modern Lie-algebraic approach to nonlinear dynamical systems on Poissonian functional manifolds, which proved to be both unexpected and important for the classification of integrable Hamiltonian flows on Hilbert spaces. The quantum current Lie algebra symmetry properties and their functional representations, interpreted as a universal algebraic structure of symmetries of completely integrable nonlinear dynamical systems of theoretical and mathematical physics on functional manifolds, are analyzed in detail. Based on the current algebra symmetry structure and their functional representations, an effective integrability criterion is formulated for a wide class of completely integrable Hamiltonian systems on functional manifolds. The related algebraic structure of the Poissonian operators and an effective algorithm of their analytical construction are described. The current algebra representations in separable Hilbert spaces and the factorized structure of quantum integrable many-particle Hamiltonian systems are reviewed. The related current algebra-based Hamiltonian reconstruction of the many-particle oscillatory and Calogero–Moser–Sutherland quantum models are reviewed and discussed in detail. The related quasi-classical quantum current algebra density representations and the collective variable approach in equilibrium statistical physics are reviewed. In addition, the classical Wigner type current algebra representation and its application to non-equilibrium classical statistical mechanics are described, and the construction of the Lie–Poisson structure on the phase space of the infinite hierarchy of distribution functions is presented. The related Boltzmann–Bogolubov type kinetic equation for the generating functional of many-particle distribution functions is constructed, and the invariant reduction scheme, compatible with imposed correlation functions constraints, is suggested and analyzed in detail. We also review current algebra functional representations and their geometric structure subject to the analytical description of quasi-stationary hydrodynamic flows and their magneto-hydrodynamic generalizations. A unified geometric description of the ideal idiabatic liquid dynamics is presented, and its Hamiltonian structure is analyzed. A special chapter of the review is devoted to recent results on the description of modified current Lie algebra symmetries on torus and their Lie-algebraic structures, related to integrable so-called heavenly type spatially many-dimensional dynamical systems on functional manifolds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Topics in Gravity, Field Theory and Quantum Mechanics)
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