Loop Quantum Gravity and the Cyclic Universe

Abstract

Loop quantum gravity introduces strong non-perturbative modifications to the dynamical equations in the semi-classical regime, which are responsible for various novel effects, including resolution of the classical singularity in a Friedman universe. Here we investigate the modifications for the case of a cyclic universe potential, assuming that we can apply the four-dimensional loop quantum formalism within the effective four-dimensional theory of the cyclic scenario. We find that loop quantum effects can dramatically alter the near-collision dynamics of the cyclic scenario. In the kinetic-dominated collapse era, the scalar field is effectively frozen by loop quantum friction, so that the branes approach collision and bounce back without actual collision.

6 pages, 4 figures; v2: minor changes to match PRD version

References in corpus (3)

• The Bianchi IX model in Loop Quantum Cosmology
• Quantum suppression of the generic chaotic behavior close to cosmological singularities
• Qualitative Approach to Semi-Classical Loop Quantum Cosmology

Cited by in corpus (6)

• Spontaneous Inflation and the Origin of the Arrow of Time
• Patch dualities and remarks on nonstandard cosmologies
• AdS and stabilized extra dimensions in multidimensional gravitational models with nonlinear scalar curvature terms 1/R and R^4
• Elements of Loop Quantum Cosmology
• The Early Universe in Loop Quantum Cosmology
• Bibliography of Publications related to Classical Self-dual variables and Loop Quantum Gravity