Covariant Loop Quantum Gravity: An Elementary Introduction to Quantum Gravity and Spinfoam Theory
Abstract
Quantum gravity is among the most fascinating problems in physics. It modifies our understanding of time, space and matter. The recent development of the loop approach has allowed us to explore domains ranging from black hole thermodynamics to the early Universe. This book provides readers with a simple introduction to loop quantum gravity, centred on its covariant approach. It focuses on the physical and conceptual aspects of the problem and includes the background material needed to enter this lively domain of research, making it ideal for researchers and graduate students. Topics covered include quanta of space; classical and quantum physics without time; tetrad formalism; Holst action; lattice QCD; Regge calculus; ADM and Ashtekar variables; Ponzano-Regge and Turaev-Viro amplitudes; kinematics and dynamics of 4D Lorentzian quantum gravity; spectrum of area and volume; coherent states; classical limit; matter couplings; graviton propagator; spinfoam cosmology and black hole thermodynamics.
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- Authors
- Rovelli, C., & Vidotto, F.
- Affiliations
- Radboud University Nijmegen (NL)
- ORCID
- Vidotto, Francesca
- Venue
- Cambridge University Press eBooks
- Publisher
- Cambridge University Press
- Published
- 2014-11-13
- OpenAlex
- W1931954910
- Cited by
- 544
- References
- 26
- Citations by year
- 2026: 37 · 2025: 80 · 2024: 49 · 2023: 35 · 2022: 51 · 2021: 45 · 2020: 41 · 2019: 56 · 2018: 51 · 2017: 38 · 2016: 36 · 2015: 19 · 2014: 4 · 2013: 1
- FWCI
- 10.54
- Type
- book
- Language
- en
- Open access
- closed
- Locations
- Cambridge University Press eBooks (publishedVersion)
- Topics
- Physical Sciences › Physics and Astronomy › Statistical and Nonlinear Physics › Noncommutative and Quantum Gravity Theories
- Physical Sciences › Physics and Astronomy › Astronomy and Astrophysics › Relativity and Gravitational Theory
- Physical Sciences › Physics and Astronomy › Nuclear and High Energy Physics › Black Holes and Theoretical Physics
- Keywords
- loop quantum gravity, tetrad formalism, Holst action, Regge calculus, lattice QCD, Ashtekar variables, coherent states, classical limit, matter coupling, graviton propagator, black hole thermodynamics, Lorentzian quantum gravity
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