Choosing a QFT Book: Easy to Understand & Good Exercises

In summary, the conversation discusses multiple options for books on quantum field theory, including Zee's "QFT in a Nutshell," Peskin and Schroeder's "Introduction to QFT," and Ryder's QFT book. The group discusses the strengths and weaknesses of each book, with Zee's book being praised for its first chapter and wider range of physics, Peskin and Schroeder's book being considered the standard in US graduate schools, and Ryder's book being known for its focus on functional integral methods. Other books are also mentioned, such as Srednicki's book and classics like Weinberg's and Ramond's.
  • #1
captain
164
0
i am having a big issue in deciding whether to read zee's qft in a nutshell book. peskin and schroeder's intro to qft, or ryder's qft book. I have heard the first chapter of zee's qft book is great but the other chapters get progressively worse because they are a general outline of the applications of qft. i am looking for a book out of these choices that is easy to understand and has good exercises to do. thanks.
 
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  • #2
Ryder's book contains no exercises, It starts with SL(2,C) group (Lorentz group),
It mainly focuses on functional integral methods.
Zee's book have some exercises, and contains wider range of physics than the other two.
Peskin and Schroder book seems to be the standard book in US graduate school, it contains exercises, and suitable for high-energy physics students.
 
  • #3
Many claims this to be the very best QFT intro book: http://www.physics.ucsb.edu/~mark/qft.html

Qft in a nutshell gives you more physical insight I've heard, but don't really show you the mathematical in its full glory.

Excersices: https://www.amazon.com/dp/3540290621/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Also this book might contain excersises, many of the books in this series contains good examples and solutions for introductory purposes. https://www.amazon.com/dp/3540290621/?tag=pfamazon01-20
Altough it has not been released yet.
 
  • #4
Three texts i used in graduate school many years ago:

Aitcheson and Hey

Mandl & Shaw

Bjorken & Drell.

Now Bjorken and Drell is old, really old but it is a very good text to work thru.
 
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  • #5
I own the Srednicki's book. I haven't went through all of it but it's very nice. Chapters are very short, concise, and are concluded with an exercise set. As a result there are hardly any solved problems. I really like this book.
 
  • #6
waht said:
I own the Srednicki's book. I haven't went through all of it but it's very nice. Chapters are very short, concise, and are concluded with an exercise set. As a result there are hardly any solved problems. I really like this book.

Hoho, short chapters give a sense of success!
In fact, there are many QFT classics:

Book by A. Zee; book by Peskin and Schroder, Book by Steven Weinberg
Book by L. Ryder; Book by P Ramond, etc. etc. just name a few.
 

1. What is the importance of choosing a QFT book that is easy to understand?

It is important to choose a QFT book that is easy to understand because quantum field theory is a complex subject and can be difficult to comprehend. A book that is easy to understand will help you grasp the fundamental concepts and build a strong foundation for further learning.

2. How can I determine if a QFT book has good exercises?

One way to determine if a QFT book has good exercises is to read reviews from other readers. Additionally, you can browse through the book and look for exercises that are challenging and relevant to the concepts being taught. A good QFT book should have exercises that help reinforce understanding and provide opportunities for practice.

3. Are there any specific features or characteristics I should look for in a QFT book?

Yes, there are a few key features that you should look for in a QFT book. These include a clear and organized structure, well-explained concepts, relevant and up-to-date examples, and challenging exercises. Additionally, look for a book that aligns with your learning style and has a good balance between theory and application.

4. Is it necessary to have a strong background in physics to understand a QFT book?

While having a strong background in physics can certainly be helpful, it is not necessarily a requirement for understanding a QFT book. Many books provide a comprehensive introduction to the necessary concepts and equations before delving into QFT. However, a basic understanding of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics can make the learning process smoother.

5. Can I use multiple QFT books together for a more thorough understanding?

Absolutely! Using multiple QFT books can be a great way to gain a more thorough understanding of the subject. Each book may have a unique perspective or approach, and using them together can provide a well-rounded understanding. Just make sure the books complement each other and do not overlap too much in content.

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