Cosmic Strings and Other Topological Defects

by A. Vilenkin, E. P. S. Shellard

Overview

This book is a comprehensive and coherent introduction to the role of cosmic strings and other topological defects in the universe. After an introduction to standard cosmological theory and the theory of phase transitions in the early universe, the book then describes, in turn, the properties, formation, and cosmological implications of cosmic strings, monopoles, domain walls and textures. It concludes with a chapter considering the role of topological defects in inflationary universe models. Ample introductory material is included to make the book readily accessible. It will be of interest to graduate students and researchers in particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521654760
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/13/2000
Series:	Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	580
Product dimensions:	6.69(w) x 9.61(h) x 1.18(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. Phase transitions in the early universe; 3. Topological defects; 4. String field theory; 5. Superconducting strings; 6. String dynamics; 7. String gravity; 8. String interactions; 9. String evolution; 10. Cosmological implications of strings; 11. Structure formation with strings; 12. Cosmology of superconducting and global strings; 13. Domain walls; 14. Monopoles; 15. Textures; 16. Topological defects and inflation; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...a model of scientific exposition...should prove to be an invaluable reference for students and researchers in high-energy theory, providing a nice overview of a fairly large body of work." Nature

"Their book is a remarkably complete and authoritative review of the broad range of physics issues underlying it." Science

"...comprehensive and elaborate monograph....This is an excellent book..." Mathematical Reviews

From the Publisher