Introduction to Particle Physics

Pre-requisites for enrolment

The course assumes no prior subject knowledge and the treatment is largely non-mathematical. Heuristic arguments and descriptions are used to convey technical content.

Content of Course

The course:

1. Gives a brief overview of quantum mechanics and special relativity.

2. Introduces the concept of a quantum field theory and Feynman diagrams using the example of quantum electrodynamics.

3. Describes the role of quarks as the building blocks of hadrons and the evidence for quantum chromodynamics as the description of their interactions.

4. Introduces the theory of weak interactions, mixing, spontaneous symmetry breaking and the Higgs mechanism.

5. Describes how accelerators and particle detectors work.

6. Discusses what happens in particle collisions and how physicists analyse the results.

7. Looks at open questions and possible future directions for the subject.

Teaching method(s)

Classroom sessions will be a mixture of lectures, discussions and small-group activities. Students will be encouraged to actively participate throughout. Learning Outcomes will be clearly communicated, and links will be provided to learning activities that students can engage with in their own time.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the particles and forces that make up the material world;

• Explain how particle accelerators and detectors work;

• Describe what happens in a high energy particle collision;

• Give examples of open questions and possible future directions for particle physics.

Sources

Core Readings

Recommended:

• Close, F. (2004) Particle Physics: A Very Short Introduction: Oxford University Press

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.