The Quantum Theory of Fields: Modern Applications (Volume II)

In The Quantum Theory of Fields Nobel Laureate Steven Weinberg combines his exceptional physical insight with his gift for clear exposition to provide a self-contained, comprehensive, and up-to-date introduction to quantum field theory. Volume II gives an up-to-date and self-contained account of the methods of quantum field theory, and how they have led to an understanding of the weak, strong, and electromagnetic interactions of the elementary particles. The presentation of modern mathematical methods is throughout interwoven with accounts of the problems of elementary particle physics and condensed matter physics to which they have been applied. Topics are included that are not usually found in books on quantum field theory, such as the Batalin-Vilkovisky formalism and its application to renormalisation and anomalies in gauge theories; the background field method; the effective field theory approach to symmetry breaking; critical phenomena; and superconductivity. The book contains much original material, and is peppered with examples and insights from the authors experience as a leader of elementary particle physics. Problems are included at the end of each chapter.

Contents

Preface to Volume II; 15. Non-Abelian gauge theories; 16. External field methods; 17. Renormalization of gauge theories; 18. Renormalization group methods; 19. Spontaneously broken global symmetries; 20. Operator product expansions; 21. Spontaneous breaking of gauge symmetries; 22. Anomalies; 23. Topological complications; Subject index; Author index.