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Quantum Horizons Alberta and the University of Lethbridge's Department of Physics & Astronomy present a talk on Theoretical Physics by Dr. Robie Hennigar, University of Barcelona

Quantum Effects and Singularities

Abstract: Singularities — regions of infinite spacetime curvature — are a ubiquitous prediction of General Relativity. They occur inside of black holes and at the beginning of the Universe. These objects are problematic as our theories of nature, both gravity and quantum mechanics, break down at singularities. It is widely expected that singularities will be resolved when gravity and quantum mechanics are combined in a theory of quantum gravity. Our understanding of how this may happen is far from complete, but is certain to lead to new insights for both gravity and quantum mechanics. 

In this talk, I will introduce remarkable and universal properties of gravity that emerge in the approach to a singularity and discuss my vision for how these properties may serve as a guide to combine gravity and quantum mechanics. I will then highlight a number of my recent contributions along these lines, discussing how new phases of gravity emerge near a singularity and how quantum corrections to gravity can resolve simple singularities fully generically in an analytically tractable model.