From Spacetime Quanta to Quantum Spacetime

Explore a thought-provoking lecture delivered by Perimeter Institute's Bianca Dittrich as part of the 2024 CAP-CRM Prize Lecture series at the Colloque des sciences mathématiques du Québec. Delve into the fascinating intersection of general relativity and quantum theory, examining how the traditional Newtonian concept of spacetime must evolve into a quantum framework. Learn how topological quantum field theory techniques can be applied to construct quantizations of geometry, leading to the concept of spacetime quanta. Investigate two fundamental questions in modern physics: the emergence of smooth spacetime from spacetime quanta and the potential for spacetime quanta dynamics to produce general relativity in the classical limit. Gain insights into cutting-edge research that bridges the gap between quantum mechanics and our understanding of spacetime geometry.