Feynman Diagrams: ψφ → ψφ | Tips & Advice

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the process of drawing Feynman diagrams and computing invariant amplitudes in relativistic quantum mechanics, specifically for the interaction of a spin-1/2 particle (ψ) and a spin-0 particle (φ). The participants clarify that for the process ψφ → ψφ, there are typically two contributing diagrams when considering minimal coupling to a U(1) gauge field. Understanding the Hamiltonian is crucial for determining the exact contributions to the invariant amplitude. The need for precise definitions and assumptions is emphasized to accurately analyze the diagrams.

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  • Understanding of Feynman diagrams and their construction
  • Knowledge of invariant amplitudes in quantum field theory
  • Familiarity with U(1) gauge theory and minimal coupling
  • Basic principles of relativistic quantum mechanics
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Milsomonk
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Hi guys,
And Happy new year :) I am revising for a module on relativistic quantum mechanics currently that I took some time ago.

A large portion of the module, and hence the exam involves drawing Feynman diagrams and computing invariant amplitudes. The part I am a little rusty on is how to know how many diagrams there are for a particular process, and when I must add the two together in order to obtain the invariant amplitude.

Any general advice would be appreciated but I realize this could be a little vague so here is a more concrete example from a past paper.

Consider a spin-1/2 particle ψ of charge q and mass m, and a spin-0 particle φ of the same mass and charge. Draw the lowest order Feynman diagram for the process

ψφ → ψφ

What I am not sure of is whether there is one or two diagrams here that contribute to the invariant amplitude?

Many thanks
 
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Are these two particles minimally coupled to a U(1) gauge field? (We need to know the precise Hamiltonian you're working with to give an answer)
 
Thanks very much for your response. Yes, I think we are supposed to assume so, though this is the full extent of the question with not extra information given.
 

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