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 QUANTUM FIELD THEORY
Code MATH425
Coordinator Dr M Gorbahn
Mathematical Sciences
Martin.Gorbahn@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2016-17 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To provide a broad understanding of the essentials of quantum field theory.


Learning Outcomes

After the course the students should understand the important features of the mathematical tools necessary for particle physics. In particular they should

·      be able to compute simple Feynman diagrams,

·      understand the basic principles of regularisation and renormalisation

·      be able to calculate elementary scattering cross-sections.


Syllabus
1  1

Review of classical field theory (2 lectures)

Klein-Gordon equation (2 lectures)

Dirac equation; plane wave solutions (4 lectures)

Quantisation of free scalar field (6 lectures)

Quantisation of Dirac field (4 lectures)

Interacting fields; the S-matrix (4 lectures)

Feynman rules for scalars and fermions (4 lectures)

Calculation of cross-sections (4 lectures)

Divergences and renormalisation (6 lectures)


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

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
MATH325; MATH201*; MATH224*; MATH101; MATH102; MATH103; MATH122 *Either MATH201 or MATH224 is required. 

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:
Programme:G101 Year:3,4 Programme:F344 Year:3,4 Programme:FGH1 Year:3,4 Programme:MMAS Year:1

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Written Exam  2.5 hours  First semester  100  Standard University Policy    Assessment 1 Notes (applying to all assessments) Full marks will be awarded for complete answers to all questions. 
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes