Quantum Quantum Field Theory books for undergraduates

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on recommended books for undergraduate students studying Quantum Field Theory (QFT). Key suggestions include "Quantum Field Theory and the Standard Model" by M. D. Schwartz, which is suitable for those with a solid background in Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Relativity. Other notable mentions are "A Guide to Feynman Diagrams in Many-Body Problems" by Richard Mattuck, and "Quantum Theory of Many-Particle Systems" by A. L. Fetter and J. D. Walecka. Participants emphasize the importance of supplemental materials and lecture notes alongside primary texts to enhance understanding.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Quantum Mechanics, including Second Quantization
  • Familiarity with Electromagnetism concepts
  • Knowledge of Special and General Relativity
  • Mathematical proficiency in advanced calculus and linear algebra
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "Quantum Field Theory for Gifted Amateurs" by Lancaster and Blundell
  • Review David Tong's QFT lecture notes available online
  • Study "Field Quantization" by Greiner and Reinhardt for detailed pedagogical derivations
  • Investigate "Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell" by Zee for advanced insights post-QFT learning
USEFUL FOR

Advanced undergraduate students in physics, educators seeking supplemental teaching materials, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of Quantum Field Theory concepts.

  • #31
ShayanJ said:
I have. And I think if the OP wants to buy only one book, it should be this one.
Sorry, I missed the post...
 
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  • #32
I also liked Maggiore's text and think he explains the symmetries of the various QFT's presented in a very accessible and easy to follow manner. I've used Schwartz as a sort of dip-in-and-out-of book. It's very broad in its coverage but more often than not I have gone to his book to look (and found) for a derivation of something simply quoted in a paper, e.g deriving the quark distribution function in terms of Fourier transforms of forward non local matrix elements which I hadn't seen elsewhere.
 
  • #33
eltodesukane said:
Student Friendly Quantum Field Theory 2nd Edition by Robert D. Klauber
This book is also recommended, although it is said to contain many typos.

I like Lancaster and Blundell, short chapters and you can easily work thru the problems (that is what I do when I am substitute teaching at the local high schools when not teaching). Klauber is good, but I found that I had to do a lot of gap filling in my knowledge to work thru it.

Both are excellent, but Klauber is a little more advanced.

As an aside, I picked up Lancaster and Blundell at a used book store for $15 US (it was in pristine shape, not a mark in it). Look for used copies of either.
 
  • #34
Dr Transport said:
I like Lancaster and Blundell, short chapters and you can easily work thru the problems (that is what I do when I am substitute teaching at the local high schools when not teaching). Klauber is good, but I found that I had to do a lot of gap filling in my knowledge to work thru it.

Both are excellent, but Klauber is a little more advanced.

As an aside, I picked up Lancaster and Blundell at a used book store for $15 US (it was in pristine shape, not a mark in it). Look for used copies of either.

Amazon.com prices: (it's getting ridiculous)
eTextbook $27.61
Hardcover $110.00
Paperback from $788.61
 
  • #35
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #36
eltodesukane said:
Paperback from $788.61
It can't be true. :wideeyed:
 

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