Description
A concise, beginner-friendly introduction to quantum field theory
Quantum field theory is a powerful framework that extends quantum mechanics in ways that are essential in many modern applications. While it is the fundamental formalism for the study of many areas of physics, quantum field theory requires a different way of thinking, and many newcomers to the subject struggle with the transition from quantum mechanics. A Prelude to Quantum Field Theory introduces the key concepts of quantum field theory in a brief and accessible manner while never sacrificing mathematical rigor. The result is an easy-to-use textbook that distills the most general properties of the theory without overwhelming beginning students with more advanced applications.
- Bridges quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, emphasizing analogies and differences
- Emphasizes a "quantum field theoretical mindset" while maintaining mathematical rigor
- Obtains quantum fields as the continuum limit of a quantized system of many particles
- Highlights the correspondence between wave function-fundamental in quantum mechanics-and the formalism of second quantization used in quantum field theory
- Provides a step-by-step derivation of Feynman rules for the perturbative study of interacting theories
- Introduces students to renormalization, path integrals techniques, and more
- Discusses more modern topics like effective field theories
- Ideal for both undergraduate and graduate students
- Proven in the classroom
About the Author
John Donoghue is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He is the coauthor of Dynamics of the Standard Model. Lorenzo Sorbo is Professor of Physics at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Reviews
"Recommended."---E. Kincanon, CHOICE
Book Information
ISBN 9780691223490
Author John Donoghue
Format Hardback
Page Count 160
Imprint Princeton University Press
Publisher Princeton University Press
