Unit name | Advanced Quantum Theory |
---|---|
Unit code | MATHM0013 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2C (weeks 13 - 18) |
Unit director | Dr. Muller |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
MATH11005 (Linear Algebra and Geometry), MATH11006 (Analysis 1), MATH 11007 (Calculus 1), MATH 31910 (Mechanics 23), MATH 35500 (Quantum Mechanics), or comparable units. Students will be expected to have attained a degree of mathematical maturity and facility at least at the level of a beginning Level M/7 student. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Mathematics |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
Quantum theory is the fundamental framework within which a vast section of modern physics is cast: this includes atomic, molecular and particle physics as well as condensed matter and statistical physics, and modern quantum chemistry. In recent years it has also had unexpected and deep impact on pure mathematics. Fundamental to applying quantum theory in these areas are the more sophisticated techniques and ideas introduced in this course, namely path integrals, perturbation theory via Feynman diagrams and supersymmetry. These ideas not only allow quantum theory to be applied to these areas but also introduce a raft of concepts which have become a standard language for these fields.
The aims of this unit are to introduce and develop some key ideas and techniques of modern quantum theory. These ideas – functional integration, perturbation theory via Feynman diagrams and supersymmetry – are central concepts with extremely wide applicability within modern physics. The aim is to introduce the ideas and also to enable the student to be able to do example calculations with these sophisticated tools. This unit provides essential techniques for any graduate who intends to start research in theoretical or mathematical physics as well as range of other disciplines.
A student successfully completing this unit will be able to:
The unit will be delivered through lectures. The lectures will be transmitted over the internet as part of the Taught Course Centre (TCC). The TCC is a consortium of five mathematics departments, including Bath, Bristol, Imperial College, Oxford and Warwick.
Formative homework exercises will be assigned throughout the unit.
The final assessment mark will be based on a 1½-hour written examination (100%).