About two integrals in QCD textbook by muta

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the manipulation of delta functions and integrals as presented in a Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) textbook by Muta. Participants are examining specific equations (2.3.153, 2.3.154, and 2.3.156) and the implications of delta functions and theta functions within these equations. The scope includes technical reasoning and mathematical manipulation related to theoretical physics.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the delta function \(\delta^4(q'-q)\) allows for simplification by setting \(q=q'\) and removing the integral over \(dq'\), leading to a specific interpretation of \(\delta(k'\cdot q)\) in the center of mass frame.
  • Another participant questions the direct use of the delta function \(\delta(1/4(q'+k')^2-m^2)\) and its equivalence to \(\delta(k'^2+s-4m^2)\delta(k'*q)\), expressing uncertainty about the validity of this approach.
  • A later reply asserts that one cannot split a single delta function into two separate delta functions, while also noting the presence of two delta functions in the equations being discussed and providing a mathematical manipulation involving these delta functions.
  • There is mention of the necessity of considering Jacobians when dealing with delta functions, indicating a level of complexity in the calculations involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the manipulation of delta functions, particularly regarding whether certain equivalences can be made. There is no consensus on the validity of the proposed methods for simplifying the equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of Jacobians in the context of delta functions and the implications of using delta functions in mathematical expressions. The discussion reflects a nuanced understanding of the mathematical framework involved, with unresolved steps and assumptions present.

Thor Shen
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1.How to deal with the delta functions in eq.2.3.153 to obtain the eq.2.3.154 by integrating over q'?
2.How to caculate the integral from eq.2.3.154 to eq.2.3.156, especially the theta function?
 
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You already have a [itex]\delta^4(q'-q)[/itex] so just put q=q' and remove the integral over dq'. Then in Eq. (2.3.154) you have [itex]\delta(k'\cdot q)[/itex] that, in the COM, becomes just [itex]\delta(k_0\sqrt{s})[/itex]. Therefore, taking care of the Jacobian coming out of the delta function, this just tells you that [itex]k'_0=0[/itex]. Hence you don't need to worry about the thetas since they only give you [itex]\theta(q_0)=\theta(\sqrt{s})=1[/itex] since its argument is positive.
 
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Actually, when I try to simplify the eq.2.3.153 for obtain the bracket in eq.2.3.154, I find we must use the two delta functions in eq.2.3.154, but I wonder whether we can use δ(1/4(q'+k')^2-m^2)=δ(k'^2+s-4m^2)δ(k'*q) directly, and the δ(k*q) is equivalent the δ(k'*q) because of the k' is integrated over total space?
 
Thor Shen said:
I wonder whether we can use δ(1/4(q'+k')^2-m^2)=δ(k'^2+s-4m^2)δ(k'*q) directly, and the δ(k*q) is equivalent the δ(k'*q) because of the k' is integrated over total space?

No, you can't do that. You can't split one delta function in two. However, you already have two deltas:
$$
\delta\left(q^2+k'^2+2q\cdot k'-4m^2\right)\delta\left(q^2+k'^2-2q\cdot k'-4m^2\right).
$$
Now keep in mind that if you have some function [itex]f(x)[/itex] multiplied by a delta then [itex]\delta(x-x_0)f(x)=\delta(x-x_0)f(x_0)[/itex]. This is true also if the function is a delta itself.

Now, the second delta tells you that [itex]q^2+k'^2-4m^2=2q\cdot k'[/itex]. Using this is the first delta you obtain (I always omit the necessary Jacobian):
$$
\delta\left(q\cdot k'\right)\delta\left(q^2+k'^2-2q\cdot k'-4m^2\right)=\delta\left(q\cdot k'\right)\delta\left(q^2+k'^2-4m^2\right).
$$
Keep also in mind that [itex]q^2=s[/itex].
 

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