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
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Understand symmetry breaking mechanisms in particle physics
- Have a broad overview of the standard model and its predictions
- Appreciate the role of symmetries in particle physics
- Understand and be able to calculate in relativistic quantum mechanics
Syllabus
Review of particles and their properties
Relativistic Quantum Mechanics
- Klein Gordon equation and negative energy solutions
- Dirac equation, anti-particles and spin
Quantum Electro Dynamics
- Photons
- Minimal substitution
- Feynman rules of QED from Fermi's Golden Rule & g-2
- Gauge invariance
Quantum Chromo Dynamics
- SU(3) colour symmetry
- Feynman rules
- Asymptotic Freedom and the non-perturbative regime
- Colour singlets
Electro-weak Theory
- SU(2) weak isospin
- Symmetry breaking and the Higgs boson
- U(1) hypercharge
- fermion masses, CKM matrices and CP violation
Beyond the Standard Model
- Neutrino mass
- Naturalness and new Higgs physics.
- The quantum gravity problem
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 36 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 18 |
| Completion of assessment task | 2 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Wider reading or practice | 66 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Internet Resources
Textbooks
Dunningham & Vedral (for revision). Introductory Quantum Physics and Relativity.
Halzen and Martin (more phenomenological core book). Quarks and Leptons.
Gorbunov and Rubakov (for Cosmology part). Introduction to the Theory of the Early Universe.
Perkins (an experimental view of the subject). Introduction to High Energy Physics.
Casalbuoni (good entry book to QFT). Introduction to Quantum Field Theory.
Aitchison and Hey (more formal core book). Gauge Theories in Particle Physics.
Lee (essential for the part con colliders). Accelerator Physics.
Martin and Shaw (more phenomenological core book). Particle 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.
| 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.
| 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.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External