Questions on Chapter 67: Understanding the Limit and Contact Terms

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on Chapter 67 of a theoretical physics text, specifically addressing the limit imposed on k^2_i \to -m^2 and the implications of contact terms represented by the delta function \delta^4(x_1-x_2). The limit is necessary to ensure that external particles remain physical and on-shell, as derived from earlier equations in the chapter. Additionally, the Fourier transform of the contact term results in a function dependent on k_1+k_2, which excludes it from being classified as a singular term in equation (67.7).

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  • Familiarity with quantum field theory concepts, particularly on-shell conditions.
  • Understanding of Fourier transforms and their applications in theoretical physics.
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  • Study the derivation of on-shell conditions in quantum field theory.
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The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, graduate students in quantum field theory, and researchers focusing on particle physics and mathematical methods in physics.

LAHLH
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Hi,

Just have a few questions about this chapter if anyone here is familiar with it...

1) Does anyone know why the k^2_i \to -m^2 limit is imposed in (67.4), is it just because he wants external particles to be physical and hence on-shell? I derived this equation from the one directly above by integrating by parts but can't see where the limit comes out here but is not present there..

2) On the next page where he supposes a contact term with a factor \delta^4 (x_1-x_2) why does this Fourier transform to a function of k_1+k_2 independent of k_1-k_2. I know this is a rather basic question, but I can't seem to make it work out, so would be grateful if someone could show me. Secondly why does this exclude it from being of the form of singular term in (67.7)?

thanks a lot for any help
 
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1) k^2 = -m^2 already in 67.3; see ch. 5.

2) Integrate e^(i k1 x1)e^(i k2 x2) delta^4(x1-x2) F(x1,x2) over x2, where F(x1,x2) is any smooth function. The result is e^(i(k1+k2)x1) F(x1,x1). Integrating over x1 yields a function of k1+k2.
 

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