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

by Erick J. Weinberg

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521114639
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	08/16/2012
Series:	Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics
Pages:	342
Product dimensions:	7.10(w) x 9.80(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Erick J. Weinberg is Professor of Physics in the Department of Physics, Columbia University. Since 1996 he has been Editor of Physical Review D. His research interests include the implications of solitons and instantons for high-energy physics, cosmology and black holes, as well as a variety of other topics in quantum field theory.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction; 2. One-dimensional solitons; 3. Solitons in more dimensions - vortices and strings; 4. Some topology; 5. Magnetic monopoles with U(1) charges; 6. Magnetic monopoles in larger gauge groups; 7. Cosmological implications and experimental bounds; 8. BPS solitons, supersymmetry, and duality; 9. Euclidean solutions; 10. Yang–Mills instantons; 11. Instantons, fermions, and physical consequences; 12. Vacuum decay; Appendixes; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"The author is undoubtedly a top expert in the field. All his research has been dedicated to this subject and he is certainly the right person to write such a book. The matter is treated in a very competent and pedagogical way, and it is indeed a pleasure to read this book. "
Giuseppe Nardelli, Mathematical reviews

From the Publisher