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Observables and amplitudes for spinning particles and black holes

Published 21 Jun 2019 in hep-th and gr-qc | (1906.09260v2)

Abstract: We develop a general formalism for computing classical observables for relativistic scattering of spinning particles, directly from on-shell amplitudes. We then apply this formalism to minimally coupled Einstein-gravity amplitudes for the scattering of massive spin 1/2 and spin 1 particles with a massive scalar, constructed using the double copy. In doing so we reproduce recent results at first post-Minkowskian order for the scattering of spinning black holes, through quadrupolar order in the spin-multipole expansion.

Citations (204)

Summary

  • The paper introduces a novel on-shell method that converts scattering amplitudes into classical observables for spinning particles and black holes.
  • It employs the double copy technique linking Yang-Mills and gravitational amplitudes to accurately reproduce 1PM order results, including quadrupole spin effects.
  • The study bridges quantum field theory and gravitational physics, offering insights with significant implications for black hole scattering and gravitational wave astronomy.

Overview of Spin and Scattering Observables in Black Hole Physics

The paper by Ben Maybee, Donal O’Connell, and Justin Vines addresses the intricate dynamics of spinning particles and black holes through a methodological framework grounded in quantum field theory (QFT). Specifically, the focus is on deriving classical observables from relativistic scattering processes involving spinning particles by employing a novel formalism that translates on-shell amplitudes into these observables. This work extends prior accomplishments by effectively connecting QFT methods to the classical physics of black holes.

Scattering Amplitudes and Classical Observables

Central to this work is the implementation of on-shell scattering amplitudes to compute classical observables relevant to spinning particles in gravitational contexts. By constructing amplitudes for spin-1/2 and spin-1 particles interacting with a massive scalar, using a technique known as the double copy, this research reproduces established results at the first post-Minkowskian (1PM) order, encompassing spin-multipole expansions up to quadrupolar spin contributions.

Implications for Black Hole Scattering

The paper highlights how the dynamics of Kerr black holes, as special spinning entities defined by finite mass-multipole moments and subject to the no-hair theorem, can be mapped to minimal coupling conditions in the corresponding quantum scattering amplitudes. These amplitude results are expanded to encompass scenarios involving higher spin values (up to spin 2), where they capture significant physical phenomena like spin-orbit couplings within the post-Newtonian approximation.

Classical Limits and Amplitude Calculations

The authors detail the derivation of classical limits from amplitude computations. Here, gauge theory and gravitational interactions are thoroughly examined, revealing universal traits of the spinning bodies. Through careful attention to the double copy framework, which translates Yang-Mills amplitudes to gravitational ones, the study efficiently computes and validates theoretical predictions about black-holes interactions, particularly emphasizing the quadrupole expansions in linear impulses and angular impulses related to spinning black holes.

Numerical Results and Theoretical Expanse

The classical predictions framed by this formalism exhibit numerical agreement with previously obtained results, even when constraints like spin alignment or nonrelativistic approximations are lifted. By confirming the universality of the amplitude structure from spin 1/2 through spin 1 particles, this paper broadens the horizon for future exploration by suggesting potential applicability across an array of theoretical and practical gravitational contexts.

Prospective Directions in Theoretical Physics

Practically, these developments hold substantial value for gravitational wave astronomy, especially in scenarios involving the interpretation of signals from binary black hole mergers. Theoretical implications extend to non-linear expansions and higher-order post-Minkowskian approximations, advancing a bridge between quantum computations and relativity. This work suggests further examinations involving higher spin amplitudes and their classical interpretations could enrich the underlying connection between quantum particles and macroscopic gravitational phenomena.

In conclusion, this research illuminates the complex interactions between quantum-mechanical amplitudes and classical gravitational dynamics, reinforcing the efficacy of on-shell methods for spinning particle systems. These insights contribute to the foundational understanding of spinning black holes, offering a diversified toolkit for probing the fundamental laws governing the universe.

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