A Standard Model Workbook

A Standard Model Workbook provides upper-level undergraduates with a one-semester introduction to the Standard Model of particle physics. It offers multiple paths through the material, consisting of short chapters and homework problems, allowing students to own the materials and instructors to construct an active, student-centered class.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 584 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2024
Publisher: University Science Books

A Standard Model Workbook is a comprehensive resource for upper-level undergraduates seeking an introduction to the Standard Model of particle physics. Authored by the renowned physicist, the book offers a unique workbook design that provides multiple paths through the material, allowing instructors to tailor their teaching approach to emphasize specific aspects.

The book comprises short chapters that provide an overview of each topic, followed by opportunities for students to work through the details independently. This hands-on approach encourages students to truly own the materials and fosters a student-centered classroom environment.

Topics covered in the workbook include a thorough review of special relativity and quantum mechanics, which form the foundation of the Standard Model. Students will explore the Lagrangian mechanics of fields, gain insights into basic quantum field theory, and study Feynman diagrams, which are crucial in understanding particle interactions. Solutions to the Dirac equation, a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics, are also presented, along with an exploration of the U(1), SU(2), and SU(3) symmetries and their implications for electrodynamics.

The electroweak theory and quantum chromodynamics are further discussed, providing a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between electromagnetism and the weak and strong nuclear forces. Renormalization, a key concept in physics, is explored, as well as the Higgs mechanism, which is responsible for giving elementary particles their mass. Fermion and neutrino masses, crucial for understanding the nature of matter and the universe, are also examined.

Experimental tests and applications of the Standard Model are extensively covered, highlighting the validation of theoretical predictions through rigorous experimentation. Students will learn about the various experiments conducted at particle accelerators, such as the Large Hadron Collider, and how they contribute to our understanding of the fundamental particles and forces of nature.

In addition to the Standard Model, the workbook also takes a brief look at possibilities beyond the Standard Model. It explores alternative theories, such as supersymmetry and string theory, and discusses the potential for new particles and phenomena to be discovered in the future.

A Standard Model Workbook is an invaluable resource for physics students, providing a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the Standard Model of particle physics. With its classroom-tested workbook design and multiple paths through the material, it enables students to develop a deep understanding of the subject while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

ISBN-13: 9781940380179