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Topology and Geometry in Quantum Gravity
Student-Run Research Seminar| Speaker: | Steve Carlip |
| Location: | 693 Kerr |
| Start time: | Wed, Nov 11 1998, 1:10PM |
Our best existing theory of gravitation, general relativity, is ultimately a theory of geometry, which describes the behavior of gravitating objects in terms of the curvature of spacetime. Quantum gravity, the (as yet incomplete) attempt to merge general relativity with quantum theory, leans heavily on modern mathematics, in fields ranging from functional analysis to noncommutative geometry to low- dimensional topology.
In this talk I will describe the application to quantum gravity of some recent results in three- and four-manifold geometry and topology. I will also briefly discuss upcoming experimental efforts to determine the actual spatial geometry of our universe.