Classical Solutions in Quantum Field Theory: Solitons and Instantons in High Energy Physics

by Erick J. Weinberg

• ISBN13: 9780521114639
• ISBN10: 0521114632
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2012-10-08
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

Classical solutions play an important role in quantum field theory, high energy physics and cosmology. Real-time soliton solutions give rise to particles, such as magnetic monopoles, and extended structures, such as domain walls and cosmic strings, that have implications for early universe cosmology. Imaginary-time Euclidean instantons are responsible for important nonperturbative effects, while Euclidean bounce solutions govern transitions between metastable states. Written for advanced graduate students and researchers in elementary particle physics, cosmology and related fields, this book brings the reader up to the level of current research in the field. The first half of the book discusses the most important classes of solitons: kinks, vortices and magnetic monopoles. The cosmological and observational constraints on these are covered, as are more formal aspects, including BPS solitons and their connection with supersymmetry. The second half is devoted to Euclidean solutions, with particular emphasis on Yang-Mills instantons and on bounce solutions.

Table of Contents

Introduction

One-dimensional solitons

Solitons in more dimensions - vortices and strings

Some topology

Magnetic monopoles with U(1) charges

Magnetic monopoles in larger gauge groups

Cosmological implications and experimental bounds

BPS solitons, supersymmetry, and duality

Euclidean solutions

Yang-Mills instantons

Instantons, fermions, and physical consequences

Vacuum decay

Appendixes

References

Index

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