The Quantum Theory of Matter

Matthias Egg, Michaël Esfeld

The paper explains in what sense the GRW matter density theory (GRWm) is a primitive ontology theory of quantum mechanics and why, thus conceived, the standard objections against the GRW formalism do not apply to GRWm. We consider the different options for conceiving the quantum state in GRWm and argue that dispositionalism is the most attractive one.

Antonis Modinos

Sean A. Hartnoll, Andrew Lucas, Subir Sachdev A

We present a review of theories of states of quantum matter without quasiparticle excitations. Solvable examples of such states are provided through a holographic duality with gravitational theories in an emergent spatial dimension. We review the duality between gravitational backgrounds and the various states of quantum matter which live on the boundary. We then describe quantum matter at a fixed commensurate density (often described by conformal field theories), and also compressible quantum matter with variable density, providing an extensive discussion of transport in both cases. We present a unified discussion of the holographic theory of transport with memory matrix and hydrodynamic methods, allowing a direct connection to experimentally realized quantum matter. We also explore other important challenges in non-quasiparticle physics, including symmetry broken phases such as superconductors and non-equilibrium dynamics.

Alan V. Durrant

Galina A. Nemova

"The interaction of light and matter has long history. It evolved from the ancient corpuscular theory, to wave theory, and finally to the quantum theory. Matter is composed of charged particles, among them positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons that are in motion. Light is an oscillating electromagnetic wave. But light is also particles (photons). The primary objective of this Field Guide to Light-Matter Interaction is to provide the reader with the basic principles of light and matter interaction using classical, semiclassical, and quantum theories. Within this Field Guide, you will find formulae and descriptions of phenomena that are fundamental for an understanding of the present state of the art of light-matter interaction"--