Varying G and Other Constants

Abstract

We review recent progress in the study of varying constants and attempts to explain the observed values of the fundamental physical constants. We describe the variation of $G$ in Newtonian and relativistic scalar-tensor gravity theories. We highlight the behaviour of the isotropic Friedmann solutions and consider some striking features of primordial black hole formation and evaporation if $G$ varies. We discuss attempts to explain the values of the constants and show how we can incorporate the simultaneou s variations of several 'constants' exactly by using higher-dimensional unified theories. Finally, we describe some new observational limits on possible space or time variations of the fine structure constant.