A concise, beginner-friendly introduction to quantum field
theory
Quantum field theory is a powerful framework that extends quantum
mechanics in ways that are essential in many modern applications. While
it is the fundamental formalism for the study of many areas of physics,
quantum field theory requires a different way of thinking, and many
newcomers to the subject struggle with the transition from quantum
mechanics. A Prelude to Quantum Field Theory introduces the key
concepts of quantum field theory in a brief and accessible manner while
never sacrificing mathematical rigor. The result is an easy-to-use
textbook that distills the most general properties of the theory without
overwhelming beginning students with more advanced applications.
- Bridges quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, emphasizing
analogies and differences
- Emphasizes a "quantum field theoretical mindset" while maintaining
mathematical rigor
- Obtains quantum fields as the continuum limit of a quantized system of
many particles
- Highlights the correspondence between wave function--fundamental in
quantum mechanics--and the formalism of second quantization used in
quantum field theory
- Provides a step-by-step derivation of Feynman rules for the
perturbative study of interacting theories
- Introduces students to renormalization, path integrals techniques, and
more
- Discusses more modern topics like effective field theories
- Ideal for both undergraduate and graduate students
- Proven in the classroom
