Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2022-2023 (archived)
Module MATH4061: ADVANCED QUANTUM THEORY IV
Department: Mathematical Sciences
MATH4061:
ADVANCED QUANTUM THEORY IV
Type |
Open |
Level |
4 |
Credits |
20 |
Availability |
Available in 2022/23 |
Module Cap |
|
Location |
Durham
|
Prerequisites
- (mathematics modules to the value of 100 credits in Years 2
and 3, with at least 40 credits at Level 3, and including Quantum
Mechanics III (MATH3111)) OR (mathematics modules to the value of 100
credits in Years 2 and 3, with at least 40 credits at Level 3, and
including Theoretical Physics 2 (PHYS2631) or Foundations Of Physics 3A
(PHYS3621).
Corequisites
Excluded Combination of Modules
Aims
- The module is intended as an introduction to Quantum Field Theory
bringing together concepts from Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics and special relativity. It discusses both free and interacting theories.
- It also provides an elementary introduction to string theory, developing the subject sufficiently to determine the spectrum and identify certain symmetries and dualities.
Content
- The action principles and the classical
Lagrangian formalism of classical field theory.
- Quantisation of free scalar fields.
- Interacting quantum fields.
- Path integrals.
- String theory: the classical theory, the quantum theory, its symmetries and spectrum.
- Renormalisation and renormalisation group flow
Learning Outcomes
- Having studied the module students will know the basic
principles of quantum field theory and the role of symmetry in modern
particle physics.
- be familiar with fundamental aspects of string theory
(quantisation of free strings, string constraints and their algebraic
description, the string spectrum)
- be able to calculate amplitudes and interaction, and understand their scale dependence
- students will be able to use a variety of highly specialised and advanced technical skills in the area of theoretical elementary
particle physics
- students will have developed the ability to operate in
complex and specialised contexts close to the cutting edge of
current research
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to
the learning outcomes of the module
- Demonstration through lecturing and the application of theory to practical examples.
- Written assignments providing formative practice in the
application of logic, rigour and extended discourse.
- Summative examinations assessing these elements, testing the acquired skills involving complex unpredictable and specialised
problems in quantum field theory.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
Activity |
Number |
Frequency |
Duration |
Total/Hours |
|
Lectures |
42 |
2 per week for 20 weeks and 2 in term 3. |
1 Hour |
42 |
|
Problems Classes |
8 |
Four in each of terms 1 and 2 |
1 Hour |
8 |
|
Preparation and Reading |
|
|
|
150 |
|
Total |
|
|
|
200 |
|
Summative Assessment
Component: Examination |
Component Weighting: 100% |
Element |
Length / duration |
Element Weighting |
Resit Opportunity |
Written examination |
3 Hours |
100% |
|
Eight written or electronic assignments to be assessed and returned. Other assignments are set for self-study and complete solutions are made available to students.
■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University