Thermodynamics as a tool for (quantum) gravitational dynamics
arXiv:2305.11756 · doi:10.1142/S021827182342018X
Abstract
The thermodynamics of local causal horizons has been shown to imply gravitational dynamics. In this essay, we discuss the principles underlying this observation, and its significance in our understanding of (quantum) gravity. We also show why the local thermodynamic methods cannot by themselves recover general relativity. Instead, they lead to the so-called Weyl transverse gravity. Because of this, local thermodynamic approaches avoid huge vacuum energy contributions to the cosmological constant. They even suggest a possible source for its small observed value. We also outline a way in which thermodynamics allows us to study low energy quantum gravitational effects. We arrive at quantum corrections to the gravitational equations which are suppressed by the Planck length squared.
arXiv comment10 pages. Essay received Honorable Mention at the Gravity Research Foundation 2023 Awards for Essays on Gravitation. Matches the version accepted in IJMPD
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