From Random Walks to Random Matrices

Theoretical physics is a fundamental branch of modern physics that seeks to describe natural phenomena through mathematical theories and models. This book provides an overview of major areas in theoretical physics, including renormalization group, fixed points, universality, and continuum limit, with examples such as path and field integrals, effective quantum field theories, gauge theories, and summation of perturbative series.

Format: Hardback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Theoretical physics stands as a fundamental pillar of modern physics, serving as the bedrock upon which all contemporary quantitative sciences are built. Its overarching objective is to elucidate the intricate workings of the natural world through the formulation and application of mathematical theories and models. By doing so, it deepens our comprehension of the very essence of the universe. This comprehensive book provides a comprehensive survey of major domains within modern theoretical physics. Each chapter introduces a novel and essential key topic, skillfully developed in a self-contained manner. Simultaneously, the chosen topics share common threads that interweave throughout the book, forming a cohesive narrative. The central themes that emerge are the renormalization group, fixed points, universality, and continuum limit, which serve as both the opening and closing chapters of this scholarly work. The evolution of modern theoretical physics has necessitated the introduction of crucial concepts and innovative mathematical tools. Examples cited in the book encompass path and field integrals, the notion of effective quantum or statistical field theories, gauge theories, and the mathematical framework underlying the interactions in fundamental particle physics. These topics include the complexities of quantization, anomalies, stochastic dynamical equations, and the summation of perturbative series. By delving into these subjects, the book offers readers a profound understanding of the intricate mechanisms that govern the universe.

Weight: 1036g
Dimension: 247 x 186 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198787754