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Résumé |
We discuss the IR dynamics of a light scalar field in inflation. We demonstrate from a functional integral
perspective how the full quantum theory gives rise to Starobinsky's semi-classical and local stochastic
description when the field is smoothed on scales comparable to the Hubble horizon. We then apply the
functional renormalization group to the stochastic dynamics by progressively integrating out frequencies. The
resulting effective action determines the approach to equilibrium and allows for the computation of unequal
time correlators for large time separations. Remarkably, the renormalization group flow for the stochastic
effective potential agrees with that found previously using quantum field theory methods and a smoothing
over spatial wavelengths. These results further support the notion that stochastic inflation captures the
correct IR dynamics of light scalar fields in inflation. |
