Interpolating Between Topologies: Casimir Energies

TL;DR

This paper explores models that interpolate between different topologies in 1+1 dimensions, calculating their finite ground state energies and discussing implications for changing spacetime topologies.

Contribution

It introduces a novel class of non-local quantum field theories that interpolate between topologically distinct backgrounds and computes their finite Casimir energies.

Findings

Ground state energies are finite for the interpolating models.

Models provide insight into quantum effects of topology change.

Discussion on relevance to spacetime topology transitions.

Abstract

A set of models is considered which, in a certain sense, interpolates between 1+1 free quantum field theories on topologically distinct backgrounds. The intermediate models may be termed free quantum field theories, though they are certainly not local. Their ground state energies are computed and shown to be finite. The possible relevance to changing spacetime topologies is discussed.