Dirk Puetzfeld (ITA): Probing the nature of space and time

Fredagskollokvium

Abstract

One of the most fundamental questions in physics is related to the geometrical structure of space and time. To put it into the words of A. Einstein ["Geometry and experience", (1921)]:

"...The question whether this continuum has a Euclidean, Riemannian, or any other structure is a question of physics which must be answered by experience, and not a question of a convention to be chosen on grounds of mere expediency."

In this lecture we are addressing exactly this important problem: How can we probe the nature of spacetime by studying the motion of test bodies? In particular, we are going to shed light on the fundamental link between the field equations and the equations of motion, the so-called 'problem of motion', in modern gravitational theories.

Publisert 11. aug. 2009 15:15 - Sist endret 15. juni 2011 13:49