Abstract
The thermodynamics of the Taub-NUT solution has been predominantly studied in the Euclidean sector, upon imposing the condition for the absence of Misner strings. Such thermodynamics is quite exceptional: the periodicity of the Euclidean time is restricted and thence the NUT charge cannot be independently varied, the entropy is not equal to a quarter of the area, and the thermodynamic volume can be negative. In this paper we revisit this paradigm and study the thermodynamics of the Lorentzian Taub-NUT solution, maintaining (as recently shown relatively harmless) Misner strings. We argue that in order to formulate a full cohomogeneity first law where the NUT parameter can be independently varied, it is natural to introduce a new charge together with its conjugate quantity. We consider two scenarios: one in which the entropy is given by the Lorentzian version of the Noether charge, the other in which the entropy is given by the standard Bekenstein--Hawking area law. In both cases consistent thermodynamics with positive thermodynamic volume can be formulated.
Highlights
The Lorentzian Taub-NUT metric [1,2] is one of the most intriguing solutions of general relativity
We consider two scenarios: one in which the entropy is given by the Lorentzian version of the Noether charge, and the other in which the entropy is given by the standard Bekenstein-Hawking area law
Featuring two Killing horizons and no curvature singularity, it carries a peculiar type of gravitational charge, the Newman-Unti-Tamburino (NUT) charge, which is in many respects analogous to the magnetic monopole
Summary
The Lorentzian Taub-NUT metric [1,2] is one of the most intriguing (vacuum) solutions of general relativity. The thermodynamics of the Taub-NUT solution has been predominantly studied in the Euclidean sector, upon imposing the condition for the absence of Misner strings. Such thermodynamics is quite exceptional: the periodicity of the Euclidean time is restricted and thence the Newman-Unti-Tamburino (NUT) charge cannot be independently varied, the entropy is not equal to 1=4 of the area, and the thermodynamic volume can be negative.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have