Gauge-boson propagator in out of equilibrium quantum-field system and the Boltzmann equation

Abstract

We construct from first principles a perturbative framework for studying nonequilibrium quantum-field systems that include gauge bosons. The system of our concern is quasiuniform system near equilibrium or nonequilibrium quasistationary system. We employ the closed-time-path formalism and use the so-called gradient approximation. No further approximation is introduced. We construct a gauge-boson propagator, with which a well-defined perturbative framework is formulated. In the course of construction of the framework, we obtain the generalized Boltzmann equation (GBE) that describes the evolution of the number-density functions of gauge-bosonic quasiparticles. The framework allows us to compute the reaction rate for any process taking place in the system. Various processes, in turn, cause an evolution of the systems, which is described by the GBE.