Modern Quantum Field Theory (U01434)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : PHY-5-ModQFT

The course introduces path integral methods in quantum field theory. This modern approach (as opposed to canonical quantisation) allows the relatively simple quantisation of gauge theories and forms an essential tool for the understanding and development of the 'standard model' of particle physics. Topics include: Path integral formalism, Feynman rules, LSZ formalism, loop diagrams and divergencies, regularisation and renormalisation, gauge theories, running coupling constant.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : At least 80 credit points accrued in courses of SCQF Level 9 or 10 drawn from Schedule Q, including Lagrangian Dynamics (PHY-3-LagDyn), Methods of Mathematical Physics (PHY-4-MPMeth), Quantum Theory (PHY-4-QuantTh), Relativistic Electrodynamics (PHY-4-ElDyn), and Relativistic Quantum Field Theory (PHY-5-RelQFT); Tensors & Fields (PHY-3-TensFlds) is desirable.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Undergraduate (School of Physics), (School of Physics, Schedule Q)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 5th year

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 11 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
07/01/2008	11:00	12:00			SUPA -= Rm 6224 JCMB

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	11:10	12:00	KB
Lecture	Thursday	11:10	12:00	KB

? Additional Class Information : Workshop/tutorial sessions, as arranged.

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course it is intended that a student will be able to:
1) understand the notion of a path integral in quantum mechanics and field theory;
2) be familar with Grassmann numbers and their use for fermions in path integrals;
3) understand the connection between the path integral formalism and the operator (scattering) formalism;
4) understand perturbation theory and appreciate Feynmann rules and diagrams from the path integral viewpoint;
5) be familar with the problem of divergencies in quantum field theories and the renormalisation method;
6) appreciate the beauty of asymptotic freedom of the running coupling constant in non-abelian gauge theories leading to a theory of strong interactions - QCD;
7) to be able to apply what has been learnt in the course to solving simple problems in quantum field theory.