2d quantum gravity with torsion, dilaton theory and black hole formation

TL;DR

This paper reviews advances in two-dimensional quantum gravity with torsion and dilaton fields, highlighting new physical insights like virtual black holes and the unification of classical and quantum treatments of these theories.

Contribution

It extends the treatment of 2d gravity theories to all models at both classical and quantum levels, introducing new physical concepts and mathematical formalisms.

Findings

Development of a unified formalism for 2d gravity theories

Introduction of the concept of virtual black holes

Enhanced understanding of quantum aspects of 2d gravity

Abstract

Starting from the work of the author in 1990 with different collaborators, essential progress in 2d gravity theories has been made. Now all such theories (and not only certain special models) can be treated at the classical as well as at the quantum level. New physical insights have been obtained, as e.g. the ``virtual black hole''. The formalism developed in this context recently also finds increasing interest in mathematical physics.