Dynamical synchronization, the horizon problem, and initial conditions for inflation

Abstract

We consider the evolution of homogeneous cosmologies towards the future in a dynamical systems formulation. Using a variational equation approach, we show that there is a short period in which transient solutions between the end of a Mixmaster era and a subsequent Friedmannian state exist. Implications about the generic inhomogeneous evolution towards the future, the recollapse problem, the horizon problem, and the initial conditions required for inflation are briefly discussed.

arXiv commentv2: final version to appear in LHEP, new results and explanations added, slightly different title