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OverviewThe search for a quantum theory of the gravitational field is one of the great open problems in theoretical physics. This book presents a self-contained discussion of the concepts, methods and applications that can be expected in such a theory. The two main approaches to its construction -- the direct quantisation of Einstein's general theory of relativity and string theory -- are covered. Whereas the first attempts to construct a viable theory for the gravitational field alone, string theory assumes that a quantum theory of gravity will be achieved only through a unification of all the interactions. However, both employ the general method of quantization of constrained systems, which is described together with illustrative examples relevant for quantum gravity. There is a detailed presentation of the main approaches employed in quantum general relativity: path-integral quantization, the background-field method and canonical quantum gravity in the metric, connection and loop formulations. The discussion of string theory centres around its quantum-gravitational aspects and the comparison with quantum general relativity. Physical applications discussed at length include the quantization of black holes, quantum cosmology, the indications of a discrete structure of spacetime, and the origin of irreversibility.This third edition contains new chapters or sections on quantum gravity phenomenology, Horava-Lifshitz quantum gravity, analogue gravity, the holographic principle, and affine quantum gravity. It will present updates on loop quantum cosmology, the LTB model, asymptotic safety, and various discrete approaches. The third edition also contains pedagogical extensions throughout the text.This book will be of interest to researchers and students working in relativity and gravitation, cosmology, quantum field theory and related topics. It will also be of interest to mathematicians and philosophers of science. Full Product DetailsAuthor: Claus Kiefer (Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Cologne, Germany)Publisher: Oxford University Press Imprint: Oxford University Press Edition: 3rd Revised edition Volume: 155 Dimensions: Width: 17.60cm , Height: 2.80cm , Length: 24.70cm Weight: 0.809kg ISBN: 9780199585205ISBN 10: 0199585202 Pages: 408 Publication Date: 05 April 2012 Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Undergraduate , Postgraduate, Research & Scholarly Format: Hardback Publisher's Status: Active Availability: To order  Stock availability from the supplier is unknown. We will order it for you and ship this item to you once it is received by us. Table of ContentsReviewsReview from previous edition This book maintains a high level of clarity throughout, and is written with admirable patience. It will be found very useful by a beginning researcher in quantum gravity who wants to have a comprehensive overview of the subject. Equally well, senior researchers in the field will find it a handy reference for standard analyses of various aspects of the subject. General Relativity and Gravitation A clear exposition of the fundamental concepts of gravity... an extensive review of the subject. Journal of Classical and Quantum Gravity Suitable for the expert who wants an overview of the state-of-the-art, as well as the novice looking for an introduction to one of the most spellbinding subjects in theoretical physics today. Physik-Journal Author InformationClaus Kiefer has been a Professor at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Cologne, Germany since 2001. Tab Content 6Author Website:Countries AvailableAll regions |
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