Conformal Field Theory and String Theory
10 credits
Syllabus, Master's level, 1FA008
- Code
- 1FA008
- Education cycle
- Second cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Physics A1F
- Grading system
- Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with credit (4), Pass with distinction (5)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 29 February 2024
- Responsible department
- Department of Physics and Astronomy
Entry requirements
120 credits in science/engineering. Participation in Quantum Field Theory. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.
Learning outcomes
On completion of the course, the student should be able to
- explain the implications of conformal symmetry in different space-time dimensions
- explain the enhancement of conformal symmetry in two dimensions
- explain the appearance of conformal symmetry in second order phase transitions
- describe examples of two-dimensional conformal models
- explain what questions/problems can be addressed by string theory
- explain the different properties of relativistic point-particles and strings
- explain how the quantum string constitutes a consistent theory of quantum gravity
- solve the string equations of motion subject to given initial and boundary conditions
Content
Conformal field theories in D>2 and D=2 spacetime dimensions. Conformal symmetry in second-order phase transitions. Specific conformal models in D=2 dimensions. Description and classical motion of the relativistic point particle and the relativistic string. Quantisation of the closed and open bosonic string. Path-integral methods, ghosts, and scattering amplitudes.
Instruction
Lectures
Assessment
Hand-in exercises