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Why Does Quantum Field Theory in Curved Spacetime Make Sense? And What Happens to the Algebra of Observables in the Thermodynamic Limit?

In: Dialogues Between Physics and Mathematics

Author

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  • Edward Witten

    (Einstein Drive, Institute for Advanced Study)

Abstract

This article aims to explain some of the basic facts about the questions raised in the title, without the technical details that are available in the literature. We provide a gentle introduction to some rather classical results about quantum field theory in curved spacetime and about the thermodynamic limit of quantum statistical mechanics. We also briefly explain that these results have an analog in the large N limit of gauge theory.

Suggested Citation

  • Edward Witten, 2022. "Why Does Quantum Field Theory in Curved Spacetime Make Sense? And What Happens to the Algebra of Observables in the Thermodynamic Limit?," Springer Books, in: Mo-Lin Ge & Yang-Hui He (ed.), Dialogues Between Physics and Mathematics, chapter 0, pages 241-284, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-17523-7_11
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-17523-7_11
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