- #1
Jip
- 20
- 2
Hi,
I have a very simple question. Consider a free scalar field in the realm of GR. Then its stress energy tensor, in a Roberton-Walker Universe, is the one of a perfect fluid with pressure=denity, hence an equation of state : w=p/rho=1
However this scalar model is an archetype of maslesss (spin 0) particles. Now if you consider massless particles in a box, and do your thermo/statistical physics homework on it, you find that, as any relativistic (masless) particles, the pressure must be 1/3 of the density, just as it is the case for photons. Hence here we find w=p/rho=1/3 for such a scalar field in a box.
Where's the discrepancy coming from?
Thanks for comments!
I have a very simple question. Consider a free scalar field in the realm of GR. Then its stress energy tensor, in a Roberton-Walker Universe, is the one of a perfect fluid with pressure=denity, hence an equation of state : w=p/rho=1
However this scalar model is an archetype of maslesss (spin 0) particles. Now if you consider massless particles in a box, and do your thermo/statistical physics homework on it, you find that, as any relativistic (masless) particles, the pressure must be 1/3 of the density, just as it is the case for photons. Hence here we find w=p/rho=1/3 for such a scalar field in a box.
Where's the discrepancy coming from?
Thanks for comments!