Quantum Fluctuations and Irreversibility
Abstract
Description
We study how the effects of quantum corrections lead to notions of irreversibility and clustering in quantum field theory. In particular, we consider the virtual ``charge" distribution generated by quantum corrections and adopt for it a statistical interpretation. Then, this virtual charge is shown to ($a$) describe a system where the equilibrium state is at its classical limit ($\hbar \rightarrow 0$), ($b$) give rise to spatial diffusion of the virtual cloud that decays as the classical limit is approached and ($c$) lead to a scenario where clustering takes place due to quantum dynamics, and a natural transition from a ``fractal" to a homogeneous regime occurs as distances increase.
LaTeX, 14 pages plus 4 Figures (available from the author upon request), LAEFF--93/003
LaTeX, 14 pages plus 4 Figures (available from the author upon request), LAEFF--93/003