Non-Linear Dynamics: Early Universe Phenomena

This lecture discusses the non-linear dynamics of the early universe, focusing on phenomena such as particle production, phase transitions, and cosmic defects. The instructor emphasizes the importance of non-linear field theory in understanding these processes, which are crucial for gravitational wave production and baryogenesis. The lecture highlights various numerical simulation techniques, particularly lattice methods, that are essential for accurately capturing the dynamics of these non-linear systems. The instructor introduces the Cosmo Lattice code, designed to simulate scalar-gauge field dynamics in an expanding universe. The discussion includes applications of the code in studying non-linear inflation dynamics, gravitational wave generation, and cosmic string networks. The lecture also covers the implications of these phenomena for understanding the early universe's physics, including the production of primordial black holes and the role of gauge fields in inflationary scenarios. Overall, the lecture provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and methodologies in studying the early universe's complex dynamics.