Time operator in string theory

In summary, the time operator in string theory is a mathematical tool used to describe the behavior of time in the theory. It is represented as a matrix and allows for the quantization of time, which is a key aspect of string theory. The time operator plays a crucial role in the formulation of the theory and helps to reconcile the differences between quantum mechanics and general relativity. It also allows for the prediction of time-dependent phenomena, such as the expansion of the universe and the behavior of black holes. Overall, the time operator is an essential component of string theory and helps to provide a deeper understanding of the nature of time in the universe.
  • #1
atyy
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In covariant quantization of the string, say as in David Tong's http://arxiv.org/abs/0908.0333 (p28), time is an operator.

Is the time operator Hermitian, and does it correspond to an observable?
 
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  • #2
This time operator is something like a local field operator defined on the world sheet. It can't be an observable b/c it's subject to (unphysical) local symmetries and related constraints.
 
  • #3
tom.stoer said:
This time operator is something like a local field operator defined on the world sheet. It can't be an observable b/c it's subject to (unphysical) local symmetries and related constraints.
But it is still an operator on an extended unconstrained space, containing the physical constrained space as a subspace.

For some applications of this idea see e.g.
http://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/0702060
especially Sec. 5.2.
 

1. What is a time operator in string theory?

A time operator in string theory is a mathematical operator that describes the evolution of a string over time. It is used to calculate the motion and interactions of strings in space-time.

2. How does a time operator differ from the concept of time in traditional physics?

A time operator in string theory is a quantum mechanical operator, meaning it operates on a wave function rather than a classical quantity like time. This allows it to take into account the uncertainty of time at the quantum level.

3. Can the time operator be used to travel through time?

No, the time operator in string theory does not allow for time travel. It simply describes the behavior of strings in space-time and does not have the ability to manipulate or change time itself.

4. How is the time operator related to other operators in string theory?

The time operator is one of the fundamental operators in string theory, along with the position and momentum operators. These operators work together to describe the dynamics of strings in space-time.

5. Are there any experimental observations or evidence for the existence of the time operator in string theory?

Currently, there is no direct experimental evidence for the time operator in string theory. However, many of the predictions made by string theory, such as the existence of extra dimensions, have been verified through experiments. Further research and experiments are needed to fully understand and confirm the role of the time operator in string theory.

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