Advanced Topics in QFT: from non-perturbative phenomena to gravity
Module NAT3005
Basic Information
NAT3005 is a semester module in language at which is offered irregularly.
This Module is included in the following catalogues within the study programs in physics.
- Specific catalogue of special courses for nuclear, particle, and astrophysics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for condensed matter physics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for Biophysics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for Applied and Engineering Physics
- Specialization Modules in Elite-Master Program Theoretical and Mathematical Physics (TMP)
If not stated otherwise for export to a non-physics program the student workload is given in the following table.
| Total workload | Contact hours | Credits (ECTS) |
|---|---|---|
| 300 h | 90 h | 10 CP |
Responsible coordinator of the module NAT3005 is Andreas Weiler.
Content, Learning Outcome and Preconditions
Content
- Solitons in 2D (kink), 3D (vortices), 4D (monopoles)
- Introduction to homotopy theory and homotopy groups
- The U(1) problem and the strong CP problem
- Anomalies and zero modes
- Instantons and t'Hooft operator
- QFT in curved space-time
- Unruh effect
- Hawking effect
- Entanglement entropy
Learning Outcome
- non-perturbative phenomena in QFT relevant for the theta-vacuum
- the violation of anomalous global symmetries by instantons and sphalerons
- the quantum theory of inflation
- Particle physics in the presence of strong gravitational fields (e.g. near black holes)
Preconditions
Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature
Courses and Schedule
| Type | SWS | Title | Lecturer(s) | Dates | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VO | 4 | Advanced Topics in QFT: from non-perturbative phenomena to gravity | Weiler, A. |
Tue, 10:00–12:00, PH 3343 Thu, 12:00–14:00, PH 3343 and singular or moved dates |
|
| UE | 2 | Exercise to Advanced Topics in QFT: from non-perturbative phenomena to gravity |
Responsible/Coordination: Weiler, A. |
Thu, 15:15–17:15, PH-Cont. C.3202 Thu, 16:00–18:00, PH-Cont. C.3202 |
Learning and Teaching Methods
Media
Literature
- S. Weinberg - Quantum Field Theory (1 & 2)
- Rajamaran - Solitons and Instantons
- L. Parker/D. Toms, Quantum Field Theory in Curved Spacetime, Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics
- Coleman - Aspects of Symmetry
- Schwartz - Quantum Field Theory and the Standard Model
- N.D. Birrell/P.C.W. Davies, Quantum fields in curved space, Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics
- V.F. Mukhanov/S. Winitzki, Quantum Effects in Gravity, Cambridge University Press
Module Exam
Description of exams and course work
There will be an oral exam of 30 minutes duration. Therein the achievement of the competencies given in section learning outcome is tested exemplarily at least to the given cognition level using comprehension questions and sample calculations.
For example an assignment in the exam might be:
- Explain the relationship between anomalous currents and instantons
- What are zero modes? What is the t'Hooft operator?
- What is the theta vacuum?
- What is a homotopy group and why is it important for gauge theories?
- What is the Unruh/Hawking effect and how do you calculate it?
Participation in the exercise classes is strongly recommended since the exercises prepare for the problems of the exam and rehearse the specific competencies.
There will be a bonus (one intermediate stepping of "0,3" to the better grade) on passed module exams (4,3 is not upgraded to 4,0). The bonus is applicable to the exam period directly following the lecture period (not to the exam repetition) and subject to the condition that the student passes the mid-term of passing the voluntary test exam during the semester
Exam Repetition
The exam may be repeated at the end of the semester.