Introduction to Quantum Field Theory (PHYS*7030)

Course Information

Instructor

Alex Gezerlis
MacN 219
gezerlis@uoguelph.ca

Time

Tuesday & Thursday
11:30 am – 12:50 pm

Location

Mini Link Rooms (C2-278 at University of Waterloo; MacN203 at University of Guelph)

Content

In addition to the standard set of topics covered in a first course on relativistic quantum field theory, I will emphasize classical fields (Noether’s theorem) and non-relativistic quantum field theory (in the Lagrangian formalism). Here is a tentative outline:

• Relativistic notation
• Scalar fields 
• Canonical quantization
• Non-relativistic field theory
• Interacting fields
• Classical electromagnetism
• Scalar quantum electrodynamics
• Diracology
• Quantum electrodynamics

Final Exam

In light of the COVID-19 campus restrictions, this will be completed as a take home exam: Due April 14

Textbook

The lectures and my notes will synthesize material from varied sources, i.e. I will not be following a specific textbook. In addition to the recommended texts given below, I will also refer to specific chapters from other books as the need arises.

Recommended texts

• M. E. Peskin & D. V. Schroeder, An Introduction to Quantum Field Theory (Westview Press, 1995).
• M. Schwartz, Quantum Field Theory and the Standard Model (Cambridge University Press, 2013).
• S. Weinberg, The Quantum Theory of Fields, Volume 1: Foundations (Cambridge University Press, 1995).
• A. L. Fetter and J. D. Walecka, Quantum Theory of Many-Particle Systems (Dover, 2003).

Expected background

I expect that all students will be comfortable with undergraduate classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics (e.g. Poisson brackets, Maxwell’s equations, Dirac notation). Also, topics from graduate quantum mechanics will be briefly restated but essentially taken for granted (e.g. the Heisenberg picture, the Klein-Gordon equation). It would also be good if you’ve seen second quantization before. Students who are uncertain about their background preparation should contact me. Note that Physics 701/7010 (or equivalent) is a prerequisite.

Grading

The course evaluation structure will be finalized as soon as the number of students enrolled is fixed. It will consist of homework assignments and an in-class final exam.

Office Hours

By appointment.

Policies

E-mail Communication

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Drop Date

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Recording of Materials

Presentations which are made in relation to course work—including lectures—cannot be recorded in any electronic media without the permission of the presenter, whether the instructor, a classmate or guest lecturer.

Resources

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