Feynman Diagrams for Interacting Scalar Fields

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the scattering amplitude for the process \(\phi_{3}\phi_{4}\rightarrow\phi_3\phi_4\) using Feynman diagrams for four real massive scalar fields \(\phi_1, \phi_2, \phi_3, \phi_4\) with respective masses \(M_1, M_2, M_3, M_4\). The interaction Lagrangian is given by \(\mathcal{L}_{int}=\frac{-M_3}{2}\phi_1\phi_{3}^{2}-\frac{M_4}{2}\phi_2\phi_{4}^{2}\). The initial analysis reveals confusion regarding the absence of a tree-level diagram for the interaction between \(\phi_3\) and \(\phi_4\), as the proposed vertices do not facilitate their interaction. Clarification is sought on whether tree-level diagrams can consist of non-interacting propagators.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Feynman diagrams and their construction
  • Familiarity with scalar field theory and interaction Lagrangians
  • Knowledge of tree-level scattering processes
  • Basic principles of quantum field theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of scattering amplitudes in scalar field theory
  • Learn about the role of interaction vertices in Feynman diagrams
  • Explore the concept of tree-level diagrams in quantum field theory
  • Investigate the implications of kinetic terms in the Lagrangian on particle interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those focusing on quantum field theory and particle interactions, will benefit from this discussion.

MyName
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Homework Statement


Consider four real massive scalar fields, \phi_1,\phi_2,\phi_3, and \phi_4, with masses M_1,M_2,M_3,M_4.
Let these fields be coupled by the interaction lagrangian \mathcal{L}_{int}=\frac{-M_3}{2}\phi_1\phi_{3}^{2}-\frac{M_4}{2}\phi_2\phi_{4}^{2}.
Find the scattering amplitude for \phi_{3}\phi_{4}\rightarrow\phi_3\phi_4, to tree level.

Homework Equations


I'm not really sure what to put here.

The Attempt at a Solution


This honestly looks like a trick question to me. The first step is obviously to write down the relevant feynman diagrams and feynman rules to evaluate them, but I can't find a single tree level diagram for this process. A diagram would need an incoming \phi_3 and an incoming \phi_4, as well as an outgoing \phi_3 and an outgoing \phi_4.
The interaction lagrangian makes me think that we should have a vertex between a \phi_1 and two \phi_3's, as well as a vertex between a \phi_2 and two \phi_4's, but this still doesn't allow \phi_3 and \phi_4 to interact.
Perhaps I am misunderstanding the meaning of tree level (I think it just means one of each type of interaction vertex), or perhaps I am just misunderstanding the interactions.
Could this possibly have to do with interactions via the kinetic terms of the lagrangian? Can a tree level diagram just consist of the \phi_3 and the \phi_4 propagating along and not interacting (if yes I don't think this would contribute to the scattering), I'm not sure and would appreciate any help. I'm just feeling pretty confused at the moment.
Thanks!
 
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With that Lagrangian the 13 and 24 sectors do not mix.
 
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Thanks, I thought that was the case and really appreciate the confirmation.
 

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