About
Professor Hollowood is a member of the Physics Department at Swansea University.
Professor Hollowood is a member of the Physics Department at Swansea University.
The major challenge for theoretical physics in the last 50 years has been the search for a unified theory of gravity and quantum mechanics. This module will aim to show why such an understanding is needed to explain how singularities inside black holes can be resolved. The first results in the theory of quantum gravity involve the thermodynamics of black holes and the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy. These led to Hawking's prediction that black hole radiate and in the process brought quantum mechanics in direct conflict with general relativity. The module will aim to explain the physics behind these predictions and go on to consider the information loss paradox. Some ideas of the theory of quantum information will be needed to properly understand the issues involved.