Deriving 2D Quantum Gravity

Salvatore Quaid

2D gravity is often regarded as trivial; however, quantum anomalies arising from Weyl invariance in both general relativity and string theory motivate a more nuanced discussion. This seminar will go over some initial motivation for the study of 2D gravity as well as why it is incorrectly regarded as trivial. The Weyl symmetry will be demonstrated, and the effective anomalous action found from the loss of Weyl symmetry at the quantum level will be shown. The effective action will be shown to be non-local generally, but for specific metric gauges, local actions can be produced.

To participate in this event virtually via Zoom, go to https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/99570315915.