Can Topology and Geometry be Measured by an Operator Measurement in Quantum Gravity?

David Berenstein and Alexandra Miller
Phys. Rev. Lett. 118, 261601 – Published 26 June 2017

Abstract

In the context of Lin-Lunin-Maldacena geometries, we show that superpositions of classical coherent states of trivial topology can give rise to new classical limits where the topology of spacetime has changed. We argue that this phenomenon implies that neither the topology nor the geometry of spacetime can be the result of an operator measurement. We address how to reconcile these statements with the usual semiclassical analysis of low energy effective field theory for gravity.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 20 June 2016

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.118.261601

© 2017 American Physical Society

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

Particles & FieldsGravitation, Cosmology & Astrophysics

Authors & Affiliations

David Berenstein and Alexandra Miller

  • Department of Physics, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, USA

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 118, Iss. 26 — 30 June 2017

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
CHORUS

Article Available via CHORUS

Download Accepted Manuscript
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×