Course content

Free scalar field theory, Green functions, symmetries and Noether's theorem, path integrals, Wick's theorem, Feynman diagrams, n-point correlators, interacting scalar field theory, regularization and renormalization, loop diagrams, effective couplings, Dirac equation and its solutions, Lorentz algebra, Quantization of Dirac field and its propagator, symmetries of the Dirac Lagrangian, Grassmann variables, fermionic path integrals, S-matrix, LSZ-reduction formula.

If time: the electromagnetic gauge field and its quantization, gauge field propagator, scalar QED, spontaneous symmetry breaking, Higgs mechanism

Learning outcome

The student is expected to obtain knowledge about the fundamental principles and formalisms of quantum field theories, and the use of Feynman diagrams for quantitative analysis of such. In particular, students are expected to obtain knowledge about path integrals, wave equations for scalar and general tensor fields, Feynman rules for scalar theories, loop diagrams, symmetries and the Noether theorem, the Dirac equation, Weyl and Majorana spinors, scattering processes, gauge theories, and renormalization and running couplings.

General competence: The candidate should be able to apply abstract mathematical models to concrete physical problems.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and problem sessions. Expected workload in the course is 225 hours.

Joint lectures with FY3464.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

TFY4205 Quantum mechanics II and FY3403 Particle physics, or similar knowledge.

Course materials

D. Bailin and A. Love, Introduction to Gauge Field Theory, Adam Hilger, Bristol A. Zee, Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell, Princeton University Press. M. Kachelriess: Lecture notes for FY3464 and FY3466.

Credit reductions