PX454-15 Theoretical Particle Physics
Introductory description
The Standard Model (SM) of Particle Physics is a quantum field theory with local gauge symmetries. We describe these symmetries and show how to calculate cross sections (experimental observables). We will discuss the Higgs mechanism and spontaneous symmetry breaking, which explain the origin of mass in the SM. Finally, we will look beyond the group structure of the current Standard Model to discuss possible mechanisms for unification of the strong process with the electroweak interaction.
Module aims
To develop ideas used in gauge theories and apply these to the field of particle physics. To describe the theory underpinning the Standard Model of Particle Physics and to highlight the symmetry properties of the theory. To discuss the formulation of the Standard Model, including the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, and consider further model extensions.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Introduction and revision of relativistic quantum mechanics
The mathematical description of symmetries
The gauge principle and implications of gauge invariance
Quantum Field Theory and the generation of Feynman Rules
The gauge structure of QED, QCD and the Electroweak forces
Electroweak unification, predictions and experimental validation
Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking and the Higgs Mechanism
Extensions of the gauge structure of the Standard Model
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Explain the gauge principle, the mathematical description of symmetry, and the symmetry properties associated with gauge invariance
- Describe how the quarks and leptons, and the bosons that mediate their interactions, can be described by local gauge theories
- Derive Feynman rules from the Lagrangian description of quantum fields
- Use the gauge structure of each of the three interactions, to calculate basic processes in QED
- Explain how the electromagnetic and weak forces were unified and how the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking (and the Higgs Mechanism) can account for massive gauge fields
- Describe some of the current ideas for extensions of the Standard Model
Indicative reading list
I. J. R Aitchison and A.J.G. Hey, Gauge Theories in Particle Physics, CRC Press (2013)
M. Thomson, Modern Particle Physics, Cambridge University Press (2013)
D. Griffiths, Introduction to Elementary Particles, Wiley (2008)
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
Knowledge of mathematics and physics. Skills in modelling, reasoning, thinking.
Transferable skills
Analytical, communication, problem-solving, self-study
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Private study | 120 hours (80%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Working through lecture notes, solving problems, wider reading, discussing with others taking the module, revising for exam, practising on past exam papers
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group B
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theoretical Particle Physics | 100% | No | |
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Answer 3 questions
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Feedback on assessment
Personal tutor, group feedback
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 4 of UPXA-F303 Undergraduate Physics (MPhys)
This module is Option list B for:
- Year 4 of UPXA-FG31 Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (MMathPhys)
- Year 4 of UPXA-F3FA Undergraduate Physics with Astrophysics (MPhys)