Quantum Theory, Black Holes and Inflation

Among the most fascinating and rapidly developing areas in modemphysics is the study of cosmological phenomena such as black holes,the cosmic microwave background, and the inflationary nature of theuniverse. Recent theoretical and experimental developments in thesefields have significantly increased our understanding of theseexciting and important topics. In order to allow the reader fullyto understand these new developments, Quantum Theory, Black Holesand Inflation begins by introducing the theory of quantised fieldsin a mathematically rigorous fashion. Concentrating on the pathintegral approach to quantum field theory, the essentialmathematical tools are developed to allow the reader to get togrips with the ways in which the theory has been successfullyapplied to a number of areas in modern cosmology. The second halfof Quantum Theory, Black Holes and Inflation explains a number ofthe most successful applications to date, including the theory ofblack hole evaporation and thermodynamics, and the theory ofquantum effects in the inflationary model of the universe. Quantum Theory, Black Holes and Inflation will be of great interestto all those involved in these vibrant areas of research. Itscombination of mathematical background and the most successfulmodern applications of the theory make it accessible andinteresting to both postgraduate students and more experiencedresearchers in the field.

Quantum Theory and Path Integrals. Quantum Field Theory. Gauge Theories. Quantum Statistical Mechanics. Classical Gravity. Black Hole Evaporation. The Inflationary Universe. Quantum Cosmology. Appendices. References. Index.