Exact expression for the tensor-to-scalar ratio

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the expression for the tensor-to-scalar ratio ##r## in the context of inflationary cosmology, specifically comparing cold and warm inflation scenarios. Participants explore whether the expression for ##r## is exact or merely an approximation, and they express interest in numerical computations related to these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that the expression for the tensor-to-scalar ratio ##r=16\epsilon_H = -16\frac{\dot H}{H^2}## is a lowest-order approximation.
  • There is a suggestion that to obtain an exact value for ##r##, one must numerically compute the amplitudes of the tensor and scalar perturbation spectra at the relevant scale.
  • One participant notes that ##r=\frac{P_T}{P_S}##, where ##P_T## is the tensor amplitude and ##P_S## is the scalar amplitude, and questions the availability of references for ##P_S## in warm inflation.
  • Another participant mentions that they believe ##P_T## remains consistent with cold inflation since it does not couple strongly to the thermal background.
  • A participant offers a reference link for further reading on perturbations in warm inflation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the expression for ##r## is a lowest-order approximation, but there is no consensus on the exact nature of the tensor and scalar amplitudes in warm inflation, indicating ongoing uncertainty and exploration in this area.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on specific definitions of perturbation amplitudes and the unresolved nature of how warm inflation affects these amplitudes compared to cold inflation.

Whitehole
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Based on the vast cosmology texts, I have seen that the expression for the tensor-to-scalar ratio ##r## in cold inflation is,

##r=16\epsilon_H = -16\frac{\dot H}{H^2}\qquad## where, ##~~~\epsilon_H = -\frac{\dot H}{H^2}##

##H## is the Hubble parameter, and ##\epsilon_H## is the Hubble slow roll parameter.

I want to know if this expression is exact or approximation only? I want to numerically compute ##r## but in the case of warm inflation.
 
Last edited:
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Whitehole said:
Based on the vast cosmology texts, I have seen that the expression for the tensor-to-scalar ratio ##r## in cold inflation is,

##r=16\epsilon_H = -16\frac{\dot H}{H^2}\qquad## where, ##~~~\epsilon_H = -\frac{\dot H}{H^2}##

##H## is the Hubble parameter, and ##\epsilon_H## is the Hubble slow roll parameter.

I want to know if this expression is exact or approximation only? I want to numerically compute ##r## but in the case of warm inflation.
It's a lowest-order approximation. To get an exact value, you must numerically compute the amplitudes of the tensor and scalar perturbation spectra at the scale of interest.
 
##\tilde \omega##
bapowell said:
It's a lowest-order approximation. To get an exact value, you must numerically compute the amplitudes of the tensor and scalar perturbation spectra at the scale of interest.
Oh, since ##~r=\frac{P_T}{P_S}~## where ##P_T## is the tensor amplitude and ##P_S## is the scalar amplitude. But where can I find a reference for ##P_S## in warm inflation? I only know of that in cold inflation, and I think ##P_T## is the same as in the cold inflation since ##P_T## doesn't couple strongly to the thermal background so gravitational waves are only generated by quantum fluctuations.
 
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