Introduction to Quantum Fields on a Lattice
This book provides a concrete introduction to quantum fields on a lattice: a precise and non-perturbative definition of quantum field theory obtained by replacing continuous space-time by a discrete set of points on a lattice. The path integral on the lattice is explained in concrete examples using weak and strong coupling expansions. Fundamental concepts such as 'triviality' of Higgs fields and confinement of quarks and gluons into hadrons are described and illustrated with the results of numerical simulations. The book also provides an introduction to chiral symmetry and chiral gauge theory, as well as quantized non-abelian gauge fields, scaling and universality. Based on the lecture notes of a course given by the author, this book contains many explanatory examples and exercises, and is suitable as a textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses.
- Clear, concise and accessible introduction to quantum fields on a lattice
- Contains problems and examples for students
- Ideal for graduate and advanced undergraduate courses
Product details
December 2002Paperback
9780521890519
284 pages
229 × 152 × 17 mm
0.393kg
74 b/w illus. 1 table 34 exercises
Temporarily unavailable - available from TBC
Table of Contents
- Preface
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Path integral and lattice regularisation
- 3. O(n) models
- 4. Gauge field on the lattice
- 5. U(1) and SU(n) gauge theory
- 6. Fermions on the lattice
- 7. Low mass hadrons in QCD
- 8. Chiral symmetry
- Appendix 1. SU(n)
- Appendix 2. Temporal gauge quantization in the continuum
- Appendix 3. Fermionic coherent states
- Appendix 4. Spinor fields.
