Spin Networks in Nonperturbative Quantum Gravity
John C. Baez
Abstract
Open-access reader
John C. Baez
Abstract
Open-access reader
A spin network is a generalization of a knot or link: a graph embedded in space, with edges labelled by representations of a Lie group, and vertices labelled by intertwining operators. Such objects play an important role in 3-dimensional topological quantum field theory, functional integration on the space A/G of connections modulo gauge transformations, and the loop representation of quantum gravity. Here, after an introduction to the basic ideas of nonperturbative canonical quantum gravity, we review a rigorous approach to functional integration on A/G in which L^2(A/G) is spanned by states labelled by spin networks. Then we explain the `new variables' for general relativity in 4-dimensional spacetime and describe how canonical quantization of gravity in this formalism leads to interesting applications of these spin network states.
A significance statement is not available in the OpenAlex record.
A contribution statement is not available in the OpenAlex record.
Method details are not available in the OpenAlex metadata.
Findings are not separately available in the OpenAlex metadata.
Limitations are not available in the OpenAlex metadata.
Application details are not available in the OpenAlex metadata.
A spin network is a generalization of a knot or link: a graph embedded in space, with edges labelled by representations of a Lie group, and vertices labelled by intertwining operators. Such objects play an important role in 3-dimensional topological quantum field theory, functional integration on the space A/G of connections modulo gauge transformations, and the loop representation of quantum gravity. Here, after an introduction to the basic ideas of nonperturbative canonical quantum gravity, we review a rigorous approach to functional integration on A/G in which L^2(A/G) is spanned by states labelled by spin networks. Then we explain the `new variables' for general relativity in 4-dimensional spacetime and describe how canonical quantization of gravity in this formalism leads to interesting applications of these spin network states.
Key concepts: Spin network, Spin foam, Group field theory, Canonical quantum gravity, Quantum gravity, Loop quantum gravity, Immirzi parameter, Physics