Converting momentum sums to integrals in curved spacetime

In summary, the paper discusses the process of converting momentum sums to integrals in the context of curved spacetime. It focuses on the mathematical framework required to transition from discrete momentum states to a continuous representation, addressing the implications for physical observables in relativistic theories. The authors highlight the importance of proper measures and integration techniques that account for the curvature of spacetime, ensuring that results remain consistent with the principles of general relativity. This conversion is crucial for understanding various phenomena in high-energy physics and cosmology.
  • #1
KariK
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TL;DR Summary
Is Parker and Toms book wrong calculating number density of particle creation?
I am studying particle pair production using Parker and Toms book: Quantum Field Theory in Curved Spacetime. On page 48 they talk about converting the sum over momentum (k) into an integral. You assume boundary conditions so that k = 2*Pi*n/L, where n is an integer and L is the coordinate length of the cube, the volume of which is L^3. Then on page 60 he derives a formula for the number density of the created particles. There he has the volume as (L*a)^3, with a being the cosmological scale factor. But then in the next line (Equation 2.103) he uses the integral and uses (2*Pi^2*a)^-3 as the factor? (I understand that you get the 4*Pi from the angles integration.) In my mind if the side of the cube is L*a, then k = 2*Pi*n/(L*a), so we have a factor [L*a*dk/(2*Pi)]^3. So the integral in Equation 2.103 should be just (2*Pi)^-3 times the integral. Why do they have the additional a in there? Am I missing something or is the book wrong?
 
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  • #2
Well, nobody responded to this question and some time ago I understood the issue, so here is the answer for posterity.
If you solve the Klein-Gordon equation for a scalar field, the answer depends on the phase:
Phi = ...*e^(i*k.x)*..., where k is a constant and x is the comoving coordinate. We demand that the phase is the same at opposite edges of the cube, so we indeed get k*L = 2*Pi*n. For density quantities (number or energy) we have to divide by the physical volume (a*L)^3. So indeed we get the factor (2*Pi*a)^-3.
 
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