Relativistic Quantum Transport Theory

Abstract

Relativistic quantum transport theory has begun to play an important role in the space-time description of matter under extreme conditions of high energy density in out-of-equilibrium situations. The following introductory lectures on some of its basic concepts and methods comprise the sections: 1. Introduction; 2. Aims of transport theory (classical); 3. Quantum mechanical distribution functions - the density matrix and the Wigner function; 4. Transport theory for quantum fields; 5. Particle production by classical fields; 6. Fluid dynamics of relativistic quantum dust.

Comments: Lectures presented at PASI "New States of Matter in Hadronic Interactions", Campos do Jordao, Brazil, Jan.7-18, 2002. - 19 pages; LaTeX