Do Closed Timelike Curves Exist?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the existence of Closed Timelike Curves (CTCs) in the context of general relativity and black hole metrics, specifically the Kerr metric and Godel metric. While metrics suggest the theoretical possibility of CTCs, such as in rotating black holes, there is no empirical evidence supporting their existence. The conversation highlights the instability of Cauchy horizons and the implications of quantum gravity theories, which may ultimately rule out CTCs. Key references include the Chronology Protection Conjecture and works by Hod and Piran on black hole stability.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general relativity and its metrics, particularly the Kerr and Godel metrics.
  • Familiarity with the concept of black holes, including event horizons and singularities.
  • Knowledge of quantum gravity theories and their implications for spacetime.
  • Basic grasp of the Chronology Protection Conjecture and its relevance to time travel.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the Chronology Protection Conjecture on time travel theories.
  • Explore the mathematical framework of the Kerr-Newman geometry and its relation to CTCs.
  • Investigate the stability of Cauchy horizons in black holes through the works of Hod and Piran.
  • Study the concept of geodesic completeness and its role in understanding black hole dynamics.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those focusing on general relativity, black hole physics, and quantum gravity. This discussion is also beneficial for anyone interested in the theoretical aspects of time travel and its implications in modern physics.

  • #31
But most think quantum gravity will prevent closed timelike loops?
 
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  • #32
JesseM said:
"Shallow interior" here just means the region between the outer horizon and the inner horizon, and "deep interior" just means inside the inner horizon. So whoever wrote this is just saying that the region inside the inner horizon is objectionable because it contains CTCs, and a lot of physicists think that CTCs are a sign that something is going wrong with the theory (though this is just speculation, there is no proof that CTCs cannot exist in the real world).
what is wrong general relativity or the metric it self?
 

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