Linear simplicity constraint in Loop Quantum Gravity

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the linear simplicity constraint in covariant Loop Quantum Gravity (LQG) as presented in the book by Rovelli & Vidotto. The linear simplicity constraint is expressed as the equation vec{K} = \gamma vec{L}, where vec{K} and vec{L} are defined using the Holst action. The interpretation of the components of vec{K} as canonical generators of Lorentz boosts is a key point of confusion for the participants, particularly in relation to the tetrad notation and the connection to the SL(2,ℂ) generators.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of covariant Loop Quantum Gravity (LQG)
  • Familiarity with the Holst action and its components
  • Knowledge of Lorentz transformations and boost generators
  • Proficiency in tetrad notation and differential forms
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Holst action in detail, focusing on its implications in LQG
  • Research the physical interpretation of Lorentz boosts in the context of LQG
  • Examine the SL(2,ℂ) algebra and its relation to the simplicity constraints
  • Explore the Zakopane lectures by C. Rovelli for additional insights on the topic
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, particularly those specializing in quantum gravity, as well as graduate students studying Loop Quantum Gravity and its mathematical foundations.

Georges Simenon
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Hi,
I am studying covariant LQG from the recent book by Rovelli & Vidotto, and i am struggling with the linear simplicity constraint. My problems are not with its proof, that i understand, but rather with the physical interpretation in terms of boost generators.
I will try to make my question as much self-consistent as possible. I refer to ch. 3 of the Book.
They start from the Holst action
S=\int B\wedge F\quad\text{where}\quad B=\star(e\wedge e)+\frac{1}{\gamma}e\wedge e
Then, in sec. 3.3.1, they define the two 2-forms
K^I=n_J B^{IJ}|_{\Sigma}\quad\text{and}\quad L^I=n_J(\star B^{IJ})|_{\Sigma}
restricted on a spatial hypersurface \Sigma with unit timelike normal n_I.
Using these definitions, they prove that the following equation
\vec{K}=\gamma\vec{L}\qquad\text{linear simplicity constraint}
holds in the "time gauge" n_Ie^I|_{\Sigma}.
In sec. 3.4.3, they interpret the components of the vector \vec{K} as the canonical generators of Lorentz boosts. It is this interpretation that i don't understand, and I'm trying to give sense to it.
The same claim you can find in the Zakopane lectures by C. Rovelli. In the notation used there, he identifies
(\star(e\wedge e)+\frac{1}{\gamma}e\wedge e)|_{\Sigma}
with the SL(2,\mathbb{C}) generator.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


If i am asked to write the Lorentz generators in tetrad notation, i write
G^{IJ}=e^I\wedge e^J
up to an overall proportionality factor.
This makes sense. Consider, for definiteness, the 2-form
e^0\wedge e^1 = d\xi^0\otimes d\xi^1-d\xi^1\otimes d\xi^0
It generates Lorentz boosts along the local inertial axis 1. Note: the \xi's are local inertial coordinates.[/B]
 
Last edited:
Have you checked if

(\star(e\wedge e)+\frac{1}{\gamma}e\wedge e)|_{\Sigma}

obeys the so(1,3) algebra commutation relations
 

Similar threads

Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
6K
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K