Gravity as a thermodynamic phenomenon

TL;DR

This paper explores the idea that gravity may fundamentally be a thermodynamic phenomenon, based on analogies with black hole thermodynamics and the laws of thermodynamics.

Contribution

It reviews and analyzes the arguments supporting the interpretation of gravity as a thermodynamic theory, highlighting the deep connection between gravity and thermodynamics.

Findings

Black hole laws resemble thermodynamic laws

Gravity may emerge from thermodynamic principles

Supports view of gravity as an emergent phenomenon

Abstract

The analogy between the laws of black hole mechanics and the laws of thermodynamics led Bekenstein and Hawking to argue that black holes should be considered as real thermodynamic systems that are characterised by entropy and temperature. Black hole thermodynamics indicates a deeper connection between thermodynamics and gravity. We review and examine in detail the arguments that suggest an interpretation of gravity itself as a thermodynamic theory.