Quantum Statistical Processes in the Early Universe
arXiv:gr-qc/9302031 · doi:10.1016/0083-6656(93)90066-S
Abstract
We show how the concept of quantum open system and the methods in non-equilibrium statistical mechanics can be usefully applied to studies of quantum statistical processes in the early universe. We first sketch how noise, fluctuation, dissipation and decoherence processes arise in a wide range of cosmological problems. We then focus on the origin and nature of noise in quantum fields and spacetime dynamics. We introduce the concept of geometrodynamic noise and suggest a statistical mechanical definition of gravitational entropy. We end with a brief discussion of the theoretical appropriateness to view the physical universe as an open system.
umdpp 93-59, 23 pages, Latex Invited Talk at the Conference on {\it Quantum Physics and the Universe} Waseda University, Tokyo, August 1992. Proceedings edited by M. Namiki, K. Maeda, et al (Pergamon Press, Tokyo, 1993)
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