Gauge Fields, Knots and Gravity - Paperback
Gauge Fields, Knots and Gravity - Paperback
About this item
by John C. Baez (Author), Javier P. Muniain (Author)
This is an introduction to the basic tools of mathematics needed to understand the relation between knot theory and quantum gravity. The book begins with a rapid course on manifolds and differential forms, emphasizing how these provide a proper language for formulating Maxwell's equations on arbitrary spacetimes. The authors then introduce vector bundles, connections and curvature in order to generalize Maxwell theory to the Yang-Mills equations. The relation of gauge theory to the newly discovered knot invariants such as the Jones polynomial is sketched. Riemannian geometry is then introduced in order to describe Einstein's equations of general relativity and show how an attempt to quantize gravity leads to interesting applications of knot theory.
Curated additions for your library
Brain Wars: The Scientific Battle Over the Existence of the Mind and the Proof That Will Change the Way We Live Our Lives - Paperback
The Meaning of the Bible: What the Jewish Scriptures and Christian Old Testament Can Teach Us - Paperback
Cooking Under Pressure - Paperback
Critical Care: A New Nurse Faces Death, Life, and Everything in Between - Paperback
