Relativistic Quantum Fields PHYS5014

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Physics and Astronomy
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

To provide students with an opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the key principles and applications of Relativistic Quantum Fields, and their relevance to current developments in physics, at a level appropriate for a professional physicist.

Timetable

  18 lectures, typically 2 lectures per week

Requirements of Entry

This course is normally only open to students who meet the requirements for entry, or progression, for a degree programme which includes Relativistic Quantum Fields as an elective or compulsory course.

 

Relativistic Quantum Fields is a compulsory course for the following degree programmes:

 

MSci Theoretical Physics

 

Relativistic Quantum Fields is an elective course for the following degree programmes:

 

MSci Physics, MSci Combined Physics, MSci Physics with Astrophysics, MSci Chemical Physics, MSci Chemical Physics with Work Placement

 

Relativistic Quantum Fields is a prohibited course for the following degree programmes:

 

BSc (Honours) Physics, BSc (Honours) Combined Physics, BSc (Honours) Chemical Physics, BSc (Honours) Physics with Astrophysics, BSc (Designated) Physics, BSc (Designated) Combined Physics, BSc (Designated) Physics with Astrophysics

 

Also, students must normally have attended previously the following pre-requisite courses:

 

Atomic Systems

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

Examination (100%)

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

To introduce students to the fundamental ideas and calculational techniques of Relativistic Quantum Field theory, including quantisation of scalar and fermion fields, interactions and Quantum Electrodynamics.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge and broad understanding of the concepts of Relativistic Quantum Fields, and perform simple calculations, including decay rates and scattering cross sections in scalar field theory and Quantum Electrodynamics. They should be able to understand the physics associated with different Lagrangians, and draw and evaluate Feynman diagrams associated with interaction terms. They should be able to write down, and where appropriate, either prove or explain physical and mathematical concepts underpinning Quantum Field Theory.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Not applicable