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Unit of study_
PHYS4125: Quantum Field Theory
2025 unit information
Quantum Field Theory (QFT) is the basic mathematical framework that is used for a consistent quantum-mechanical description of relativistic systems, such as fundamental subatomic particles in particle physics. The tools of QFT are also used for description of quasi-particles and critical phenomena in condensed matter physics and other related fields. This course introduces major concepts and technical tools of QFT. The course is largely self-contained and covers also Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms for classical fields, elements of group theory and path integral formulation of quantum mechanics. The main topics include second quantization of various fields and description of their interactions, with the main focus on the most accurate fundamental theory of quantum electromagnetism. The last part of the course deals the concept of the renormalisation group, and its applications to critical phenomena in condensed matter systems. By completing this course, you will obtain knowledge of major concepts and tools of contemporary fundamental physics, that can be employed in a wide range of physics and physics-based research, starting from the description of profound effects in condensed matter physics and ending by the understanding of basic building blocks of the Universe .
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Science
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Physics Academic Operations |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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An average of at least 65 in 144 credit points of units including (PHYS3X34 or PHYS3X42 or PHYS3X43 or PHYS3X44 or PHYS3X35 or PHYS3X40 or PHYS3941 or PHYS3X36 or PHYS3X68 or MATH3X63 or MATH4063 or MATH3X78 or MATH4078) |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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A major in physics including third-year quantum physics |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Show the conceptual background and technical skills needed to approach research on particle physics and fundamental interactions as well as other fields of physics
- LO2. Explain contemporary notions of particles and interactions within the framework of canonical quantisation
- LO3. Represent quantum-mechanical probability amplitudes graphically via Feynman diagrams and calculate experimentally observed quantities such as scattering cross-sections and particle decay rates
- LO4. Utilise path integral formalism, renormalisation and renormalisation group in the translation of diverse physics phenomena
- LO5. Find and analyse information and judge its reliability and significance
- LO6. Communicate scientific information appropriately, both orally and through written work
- LO7. Demonstrate a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour and independence as a learner and as a scientist.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
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Semester 1 2025
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Normal day | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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