Fundamentals of Particle Physics

This text is a modern introduction to the Standard Model of particle physics for graduate students and advanced undergraduate students. Assuming only prior knowledge of special relativity and non-relativistic quantum mechanics, it presents all aspects of the field, including step-by-step explanations of the theory and the most recent experimental results. Taking a pedagogical, first-principles approach, it demonstrates the essential tools for students to process and analyse experimental particle physics data for themselves. While relatively short compared to other texts, it provides enough material to be covered comfortably in a two-semester course. Some of the more technical details are given in optional supplementary boxes, while problems are provided at the end of each chapter. Written as a bridge between basic descriptive books and purely theoretical works, this text offers instructors ample flexibility to meet the needs of their courses.

• Introduces the Standard Model of particle physics as a bridge between basic descriptive books and pure theoretical books, providing a solid yet accessible background for undergraduate and graduate students, and experimentalists in particle physics
• Does not assume prior knowledge of quantum field theory, so readers can learn the theory from first principles, without going too far into the technical details of quantum field theory
• Provides tools to compare data and theory expectations, showing readers how to calculate and interpret essential theoretical quantities (cross-section, particle lifetime, etc.) for themselves
• Succinctly covers all aspects of modern particle physics: modern experimental methods, the underlying theory and the latest discoveries in the field