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arXiv · 1207.0601

A Sheaf of von Neumann Algebras and Its Geometry

Abstract

It is shown that the differential geometry of space-time, can be expressed in terms of the algebra of operators on a bundle of Hilbert spaces. The price for this is that the algebra of smooth functions on space-time has to be made noncommutative. The generalized differential geometry of space-time is constructed in terms of the algebra A (and its derivations) on a transformation groupoid. Regular representation π of A in the algebra of bounded operators on a bundle of Hilbert spaces leads to the algebra π(A) = M_0 which can be completed to the von Neumann algebra M . The representation πestablishes the isomorphism between A and M_0 which, in turn, implies the isomorphism between moduli of their derivations. In this way, geometry naturally transfers to the algebra M_0 and its derivations. Although geometry, as defined in terms of M_0, is formally isomorphic to that defined in terms of A, it exhibits a strong probabilistic flavour. However, the geometry of M_0 does not prolong to M . This is clearly a serious stumbling block to fully unify mathematical tools of general relativity and quantum theory.

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Michał Eckstein, Michael Heller, Leszek Pysiak, Wiesław Sasin. 2013-01-05. A Sheaf of von Neumann Algebras and Its Geometry. https://arxiv.org/abs/1207.0601

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