Scalar Field Dynamics: Classical, Quantum and in Between

Abstract

Using a Hartree ensemble approximation, we investigate the dynamics of the \f^4 model in 1+1 dimensions. We find that the fields initially thermalize with a Bose-Einstein distribution for the fields. Gradually, however, the distribution changes towards classical equipartition. Using suitable initial conditions quantum thermalization is achieved much faster than the onset of this undesirable equipartition. We also show how the numerical efficiency of our method can be significantly improved.

Comments: Presented at SEWM 2000, 6 pages including figures, reference corrected