Dynamics of the universe and spontaneous symmetry breaking

TLDR

The paper shows that a phase transition associated with spontaneous symmetry breaking at very high temperatures, when fundamental interactions unify, can significantly alter the early universe’s dynamics and evolution. The effect arises from energy pumping during the transition from vacuum to substance, rather than from the gravitating vacuum itself. Consequently, the universe’s expansion law deviates from previously assumed relations, becoming exponential under certain conditions and potentially lasting long enough to explain the observed isotropy. Published in The Astrophysical Journal (Oct 1980, DOI 10.1086/183361, Bibcode 1980ApJ…241L..59K).

Abstract

view Abstract Citations (466) References (13) Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Dynamics of the universe and spontaneous symmetry breaking Kazanas, D. Abstract It is shown that the presence of a phase transition early in the history of the universe, associated with spontaneous symmetry breaking (believed to take place at very high temperatures at which the various fundamental interactions unify), significantly modifies its dynamics and evolution. This is due to the energy 'pumping' during the phase transition from the vacuum to the substance, rather than the gravitating effects of the vacuum. The expansion law of the universe then differs substantially from the relation considered so far for the very early time expansion. In particular it is shown that under certain conditions this expansion law is exponential. It is further argued that under reasonable assumptions for the mass of the associated Higgs boson this expansion stage could last long enough to potentially account for the observed isotropy of the universe. Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: October 1980 DOI: 10.1086/183361 Bibcode: 1980ApJ...241L..59K Keywords: Cosmology; Symmetry; Universe; Dynamic Models; Expansion; Gravitation; Astrophysics full text sources ADS |