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Lawrence5967
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I was wondering what one needs to know before learning particle Physics?
And any resources/books that you could suggest to help that process.
And any resources/books that you could suggest to help that process.
I very much doubt that you know anything about particle physics, unless you have read about it in popular science books, which give you a very bad idea about what physics is really like. Those books are written with the aim of selling many copies, not informing the reader.I started year 11 physics a couple of weeks ago and I have found that none of it holds my interest nearly as much as particle/nuclear physics.
Basic building blocks of matter, quarks and leptons, and their interactions; symmetry principles, such as discrete symmetries (C, P and T) and flavor symmetries based on the SU(N) groups; violation of some of the symmetries, such as parity symmetry in weak interactions. Phenomenology will be summarized in the framework of the Standard Model.
A strong foundation in mathematics, specifically calculus and linear algebra, is essential for understanding the complex equations and concepts in particle physics. It is also helpful to have a basic understanding of classical mechanics and electromagnetism.
While a degree in physics is helpful, it is not necessary to learn about particle physics. With a strong background in mathematics and a willingness to learn, anyone can understand the fundamentals of particle physics.
It is possible to learn particle physics on your own through self-study and online resources. However, taking a course from a reputable institution or attending workshops and conferences can provide a more structured and comprehensive understanding of the subject.
There are many resources available for learning about particle physics, including textbooks, online courses, and lecture videos. Some recommended resources include "Introduction to Elementary Particles" by David Griffiths and the online course "Introduction to Particle Physics" by CERN.
A basic understanding of quantum mechanics is helpful for learning about particles, but it is not essential. Many concepts in particle physics build upon quantum mechanics, so having some familiarity with the subject can make the learning process easier. However, most introductory courses and resources will provide the necessary background in quantum mechanics for understanding particles.