The Quantum Vacuum and the Cosmological Constant Problem

TL;DR

This paper explores the origins and conceptual issues of the cosmological constant problem, highlighting its connection to quantum vacuum energy and the interplay between general relativity and quantum field theory.

Contribution

It provides a critical analysis of the foundational assumptions behind the cosmological constant problem and clarifies the conceptual basis related to vacuum energy in quantum field theory.

Findings

Identifies the conceptual roots of the cosmological constant problem

Analyzes the assumptions linking vacuum energy to gravity

Highlights the importance of the vacuum concept in quantum field theory

Abstract

The cosmological constant problem arises at the intersection between general relativity and quantum field theory, and is regarded as a fundamental problem in modern physics. In this paper we describe the historical and conceptual origin of the cosmological constant problem which is intimately connected to the vacuum concept in quantum field theory. We critically discuss how the problem rests on the notion of physical real vacuum energy, and which relations between general relativity and quantum field theory are assumed in order to make the problem well-defined.