Robert Strain (University of Pennsylvania)

On relativistic kinetic theory with long range interactions

In this talk I will explain recent results in relativistic kinetic theory with long range interactions.     When particles are fast moving, then relativistic effects become important.  I will start by explaining some foundational results in relativistic Kinetic theory by Glassey and Strauss.   Then, in a joint work with Jin Woo Jang, we study the relativistic Boltzmann equation for general long range collision kernels with soft potential interactions.  We prove global existence of unique solutions and convergence to equilibrium.  In another work which is joint with Maja Taskovic, I will explain very recent results on the relativistic Landau equation (with no spatial dependence). We prove an entropy dissipation estimate, and discuss applications including the construction of weak solutions.   Our aim is to develop a theory for this understudied and physically important model.