Simpler embeddings of causal sets into Minkowski spacetime

Abstract

We present a new method for embedding a causal set into Minkowski spacetime. The method is similar to a previously presented method, but is simpler and provides better embedding results. The method uses spacetime volumes to define causal set analogs of time coordinates for all elements, and spatial distances for pairs of causally related elements. The spatial distances for causally related pairs are then used to derive spatial distances for spacelike separated pairs by applying the triangle inequality. The result is a matrix of spatial distances for all pairs of elements in the causal set. This distance matrix can be decomposed to give coordinates in Minkowski spacetime. Results are presented showing good quality embeddings into Minkowski spacetime for dimensions d=2,3,4. Published by the American Physical Society 2025