Inflation and electroweak and GUT vacuum

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the implications of different vacuum states in the context of electroweak and Grand Unified Theories (GUT). It highlights the significant discrepancies between quantum field theory predictions and observed values of the cosmological constant, specifically noting a 120-order magnitude error when using effective quantum field theory with a Planck scale cutoff. The conversation emphasizes the need to understand the current vacuum's effects to comprehend the universe's evolution better.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of SU(2)xU(1) electroweak theory
  • Familiarity with Grand Unified Theories (GUT)
  • Knowledge of quantum field theory (QFT)
  • Concept of cosmological constant in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of Higgs symmetry breaking in electroweak theory
  • Explore the discrepancies in cosmological constant predictions in quantum field theory
  • Study the principles of Grand Unified Theories (GUT) and their impact on vacuum states
  • Investigate advanced quantum field theory techniques, including effective field theory approaches
USEFUL FOR

The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, cosmologists, and researchers interested in the fundamental aspects of particle physics and the evolution of the universe.

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Before Higgs symmetry breaking of SU(2)xU(1) electroweak unified force or even before that, when strong and electroweak were unified as GUT theories propose, the vacuum was different from today's universe.

What effects had these different vacua on the evolution of the universe?

thanks
 
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You would need first to figure out what effect the current vacuum has -- the quantum field theory prediction (more like an educated guess) has been described as the worst theoretical prediction ever made in physics. Indeed, if you use effective QFT with a Planck scale cutoff, you get the magnitude of cosmological constant wrong by 120 orders of magnitude.
 

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