Year: 2022
Type: article
Abstract: We give an introduction into quantum cosmology with emphasis on its conceptual parts. After a general motivation, we review the formalism of canonical quantum gravity on which discussions of quantum cosmology are usually based. We then present the minisuperspace Wheeler–DeWitt equation and elaborate on the problem of time, the imposition of boundary conditions, the semiclassical approximation, the origin of irreversibility, and singularity avoidance. Restriction is made to the framework of quantum geometrodynamics.
Source: Zeitschrift für Naturforschung A
Authors: Claus Kiefer, Barbara Sandhöfer
Institution: University of Cologne
Language: English
Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4211107261