Quantum blurring of cosmological singularities

G. J. Smith and Peter G. Bergmann
Phys. Rev. D 33, 3570 – Published 15 June 1986
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Abstract

By applying quantum rules to closed Friedmann universes, DeWitt found a way of avoiding singularities present in the classical theory. In the quantum theory presented in this paper singularities are not avoided but are smeared with quantum uncertainties. The smearing is accomplished by altering the topology of the configuration space of a Friedmann universe. Although this topological change does not affect the classical dynamics, it profoundly affects the Hilbert space of quantum states of both open and closed universes. In our quantum model there is tunneling through the singularities.

  • Received 27 February 1986

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.33.3570

©1986 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

G. J. Smith

  • Department of Philosophy, Fordham University, Bronx, New York 10458

Peter G. Bergmann

  • Department of Physics, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13210 and Department of Physics, New York University, New York, New York 10003

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Issue

Vol. 33, Iss. 12 — 15 June 1986

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