Introduction to Quantum Electrodynamics and Particle Physics

Apart from updating the existing text of 1st edition two new chapters, namely, Mandelstam Variables and Symmetries of Scattering Amplitude and Regge Poles have been included in this edition. The former, that constitutes the seventh chapter of the book, introduces Mandelstam variables and describes at length the s-channel, t-channel and the u-channel processes for both the equal and unequal masses of participating particles. The conditions for the occurrence of these channel processes have been made explicit through the Mandelstam plot. Introducing scattering amplitude as the matrix element of S-matrix, the crossing and Bose symmetries of scattering amplitudes for s-, t-, u-channel scatterings have been explained and the analyticity of scattering amplitude has been elucidated through examples. The topic Regge poles, describes the study of resonances and Regge poles that can be undertaken through the scattering process. Due to the significant role of partial waves in the chapter, the scattering process has been explained through the partial wave analysis and the scattering cross section has been expressed in terms of scattering amplitude and by the optical theorem. Assignments have been given at the end of each chapter, which contain descriptive questions as well as problems. A new feature of the book is that it has a substantial number of objective type questions to help aspirants of GATE, NET and related examinations. Most of the topics forming the model syllabus of University Grants Commission for Post Graduate Particle Physics (III Semester), Nuclear and Particle Physics (IV Semester, Strong, Weak and Electromagnetic Interactions) and Quantum Electrodynamics have been covered in the book. The topics have been developed in a pedagogical manner by providing all possible algebraic details. Salient Features Convenient text-cum-reference book. Covers topics that serve the students and research workers. Suitable material for other physics courses as well. Topics have been developed in a pedagogical manner. Detailed derivations have been done in large measures. Assignments at the end of each chapter provide an easy way for the recaputilation of its contents. Large number of objective questions in each chapter make it valuable for NET, GATE and other competitive examinations.