Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title INTRODUCTION TO STRING THEORY
Code MATH423
Coordinator Prof AE Faraggi
Mathematical Sciences
Alon.Faraggi@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2019-20 Level 7 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To provide a broad understanding of string theory, and its utilization as a theory that unifies all of the known fundamental matter and interactions.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) After completing the module the students should: - be familiar with the properties of the classical string.

(LO2) be familiar with the basic structure of modern particle physics and how it may arise from string theory.

(LO3) be familiar with the basic properties of first quantized string and the implications for space-time dimensions.

(LO4) be familiar with string toroidal compactifications and T-duality.

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Numeracy

Syllabus
 

*The road to string theory *Special relativity and higher dimensions *Electromagnetism in various dimensions *The non-relativistic string *The relativistic point particle *The classical relativistic string *The Polyakov action *World-sheet currents *Solution of the open and closed string equations of motion *The quantum harmonic oscillator *The relativistic quantum open and closed string *The light-cone relativistic string *Covariant and light-cone quantization *T-duality of closed strings.

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
 

Co-requisite modules:
 

Modules for which this module is a pre-requisite:
 

Programme(s) (including Year of Study) to which this module is available on a required basis:
 

Programme(s) (including Year of Study) to which this module is available on an optional basis:
 

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Assessment 1 Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :2  2.5 hours    100       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes