Jorge Pullin Livres

In this well-written text, the authors gently introduce the conceptual foundations of loop quantum gravity (LQG) without using mathematics, a notable achievement. The discussion begins with the realization that the geometry of space-time in general relativity can be expressed in terms of the electromagnetic field, leading to intersecting graphs known as loops, which form the basis of LQG. This concise volume explores LQG's applications to black holes and cosmology, introducing the concept of spin foam while acknowledging the theory's current lack of experimental confirmation. It serves as a captivating introduction to a complex realm that is typically accessible to only a select few. Loop quantum gravity is a leading candidate for unifying Einstein's general theory of relativity with quantum mechanics, aiming to provide a quantum theory of gravity. The text defines key terms in simple language, making the subject approachable. It covers many cutting-edge developments in the field and addresses ongoing controversies, highlighting that these topics remain incomplete in scientific understanding. Overall, this book is highly recommended for upper-division undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty researchers, and was recognized as a Choice Outstanding Academic Title for 2020.

This volume provides a self-contained introduction to applications of loop representations in particle physics and quantum gravity, in order to explore the gauge invariant quantization of Yang-Mills theories and gravity. First published in 1996, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.