Contour integral trick with propagators

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the contour integral trick used in quantum field theory, specifically involving propagators. The integral presented is a combination of terms involving the energy of particles, represented as \(E_{p}\), and the integration over momentum space. The user expresses difficulty in applying contour integration to the poles at \(p^{0}=E_{p}\) and \(p^{0}=-E_{p}\). A recommended resource for understanding this derivation is found in the document at http://www.quantumfieldtheory.info/website_Chap03.pdf, particularly around page 70.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum field theory concepts
  • Familiarity with contour integration techniques
  • Knowledge of propagators in particle physics
  • Basic proficiency in handling integrals in momentum space
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of propagators in quantum field theory
  • Learn about contour integration and its applications in complex analysis
  • Explore the role of poles in integrals and their significance in physics
  • Review the specific section on contour integrals in the recommended resource
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum field theory, physicists working with propagators, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of contour integration in the context of particle physics.

pleasehelpmeno
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Hi I am struggling trying to see understand the basic propagator integral trick.

\int \frac{d^{3}p}{(2\pi^{3})}\left\lbrace \frac{1}{2E_{p}}e^{-ip.(x-y)}|_{p_{0}=E_{p}}+\frac{1}{-2E_{p}}e^{ip.(x-y)}|_{p_{0}=-E_{p}}\right\rbrace = \int \frac{d^{3}p}{(2\pi^{3})}\int \frac{dp^{0}}{(i2\pi)}\frac{-1}{p^{2}-m^{2}}e^{-ip.(x-y)}

I know it can be solved by contour integration about poles p^{0}=E_{p} and p^{0}=-E_{p} respectively but I just can't do it. Any help would be appreciated, I can provide working to what I have done but there doesn't seem much point because I am very confused.
 
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Most books race through that part way too quickly, in my opinion. The best derivation I've found online (and the one that finally helped me to understand it) is in http://www.quantumfieldtheory.info/website_Chap03.pdf, around page 70.
 
thanks
 

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