Yang-Mills Theory Explained: SU(N) Symmetry & Gauge Theory

In summary, Yang-Mills Theory is a gauge theory that can be based on different symmetry groups, such as SU(N), SO(N), or Sp(N). The main concept is to introduce gauge fields to maintain gauge invariance. It is a general mathematical model of gauge theory and can be applied to various cases, such as ElectroWeak and Chromodynamics.
  • #1
Qubix
82
1
What exactly is a Yang-Mills Theory? Is it a general theory, based on SU(N) symmetry, which can then be applied for particular cases (ElectroWeak, Chromodynamics) ? Is it like a general mathematical model of gauge theory ?
 
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  • #2
Qubix said:
What exactly is a Yang-Mills Theory? Is it a general theory, based on SU(N) symmetry, which can then be applied for particular cases (ElectroWeak, Chromodynamics) ? Is it like a general mathematical model of gauge theory ?

Yes its a gauge theory:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yang-Mills_theory
 
  • #3
Not necessarily SU(N). It can also be like SO(N), Sp(N), etc. The idea is we need to introduce gauge fields to keep the theory gauge invariant.
 
  • #4
The gauge group of the field theory needs to be nonabelian, else it would just be quantum electrodynamics.
 

1. What is Yang-Mills theory?

Yang-Mills theory is a theoretical framework in physics that describes the interactions between elementary particles. It is based on a symmetry principle known as SU(N) symmetry, which involves a mathematical structure called a gauge theory.

2. What is SU(N) symmetry?

SU(N) symmetry is a type of symmetry that describes the behavior of systems composed of N components. In Yang-Mills theory, this symmetry is used to describe the interactions between elementary particles, such as quarks and gluons.

3. What is gauge theory?

Gauge theory is a mathematical framework that describes the behavior of particles and fields in a four-dimensional space-time. In Yang-Mills theory, gauge theory is used to describe the interactions between particles by introducing a gauge field that mediates the interactions.

4. What is the significance of Yang-Mills theory?

Yang-Mills theory is significant because it provides a theoretical framework for understanding the fundamental interactions between particles, such as the strong and weak nuclear forces. It has also played a crucial role in the development of the Standard Model of particle physics.

5. How is Yang-Mills theory related to quantum chromodynamics (QCD)?

Yang-Mills theory is the basis of quantum chromodynamics, which is the theory of the strong nuclear force. QCD is a specific application of Yang-Mills theory to the behavior of quarks and gluons, and it is one of the pillars of the Standard Model of particle physics.

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