Particle Physics

Module overview

Relativistic wave equations with their predictions of anti-particles and fermion spin will be explored. The fundamental role of gauge symmetries in current theories of force will lead to the study of the standard model of particle physics, including the spontaneous electroweak symmetry breaking via the Higgs mechanism.

Finally theories of particle physics beyond the standard model will be briefly investigated concentrating on their motivations and testable consequences.

Linked modules

Pre-requisites: PHYS3002 AND PHYS3004 AND PHYS3007 AND PHYS3008

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Study time
Type	Hours
Wider reading or practice	66
Revision	10
Lecture	36
Preparation for scheduled sessions	18
Follow-up work	18
Completion of assessment task	2
Total study time	150

Resources & Reading list

Internet Resources

Online Materials.

Textbooks

Casalbuoni (good entry book to QFT). Introduction to Quantum Field Theory.

Gorbunov and Rubakov (for Cosmology part). Introduction to the Theory of the Early Universe.

Martin and Shaw (more phenomenological core book). Particle Physics.

Halzen and Martin (more phenomenological core book). Quarks and Leptons.

Dunningham & Vedral (for revision). Introductory Quantum Physics and Relativity.

Perkins (an experimental view of the subject). Introduction to High Energy Physics.

Aitchison and Hey (more formal core book). Gauge Theories in Particle Physics.

Lee (essential for the part con colliders). Accelerator Physics.

Assessment

Assessment strategy

Non compulsory problem sheets are available on the website, including model answers, though they are not used for formal (summative) assessment purposes.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Final Assessment	100%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Set Task	100%

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Set Task	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External