How to Determine Time Ordering in Phi-3 Theory for a 2-to-3 Particle Process?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining time ordering in the context of phi-3 theory for a 2-to-3 particle process using second-order perturbative theory. The user seeks assistance in applying Feynman's rules or Wick's theorem to correctly formulate the time-ordered Hamiltonian for the interaction involving phi-4 and phi-3 contributions. Key steps include drawing topologically distinct diagrams and utilizing the Feynman propagator (D_F) to transform time-ordered products into normal-ordered products, ensuring accurate combinatorial factors are applied.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of second-order perturbative theory in quantum field theory.
  • Familiarity with Feynman's rules for particle interactions.
  • Knowledge of Wick's theorem for time-ordering and normal-ordering in quantum fields.
  • Proficiency in using Feynman propagators (D_F) in calculations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Feynman's rules in quantum field theory for complex interactions.
  • Learn about Wick's theorem and its implications for time-ordered products in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore combinatorial factors in quantum field theory calculations to ensure accuracy.
  • Practice drawing and analyzing topologically distinct Feynman diagrams for various particle processes.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those focusing on quantum field theory, particle physics, and perturbative methods in interactions.

tayyaba aftab
Messages
20
Reaction score
0
i have been given a problem for writing s matrix in second order perturbative theory for an interaction hamiltonian with phi 4 and phi 3 contributions.
it is also given that our initial state is of 2 particles and final state is of three particles.
now in solving that i have to take time ordering of the hamiltonian at two different points.
problem is that i am unable to guess the right term of time ordering for the cpndition of two in coming and three outgoing particles.
can some body please help me in writing that.
i have to submit my assignment after vacations
so its urgent:frown:


tayyaba
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You don't have to guess here.
I will just cover the phi cubed case.
Are you allowed to use Feynman's rules?
If yes, just draw the 2+3 external lines and two vertices with three outgoing lines each and draw all topologically distinct diagrams. After that, you can write down the terms very easily.

If not, use Wick's theorem to transform the time-ordered into a normal-ordered product:

[tex]T\left[\phi^3(x)\phi^3(y)\right]=N\left[\phi^3(x)\phi^3(y)+\mathrm{all\, possible\, contractions}\right]=N\left[\phi^3(x)\phi^3(y)\right]+9D_F(x-y)N\left[\phi^2(x)\phi^2(y)\right]+18D_F^2(x-y)N\left[\phi(x)\phi(y)\right]+6D_F^3(x-y)[/tex]

where [tex]D_F[/tex] denotes the Feynman propagator. Please check the combinatorial factors. After that, write out the normal-ordered products to see which terms remain after contracting them with the creation and annihilation operators.
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 59 ·
2
Replies
59
Views
13K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
7K