Recommended Books for Beginners in Particle Physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical prediction of half-lives in particle physics, exploring concepts such as resonance widths and tunneling effects. Participants also seek recommendations for beginner-friendly books on the subject.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the theoretical prediction of half-lives.
  • Another participant explains that the width of a resonance's peak is related to its lifetime, introducing the formula Γ=1/t and mentioning the Breit Wigner cross section distribution.
  • A further explanation includes the concept of tunneling, specifically regarding an alpha particle escaping a heavy nucleus due to strong and Coulomb interactions.
  • Two participants express their status as beginners in particle physics and request book recommendations for further learning.
  • A suggestion is made to check out books listed in the thread for beginners.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion includes multiple viewpoints on predicting half-lives, with no consensus reached on specific methods or book recommendations.

Contextual Notes

Participants' responses depend on their interpretations of resonance and tunneling, and the discussion does not resolve the complexities involved in predicting half-lives.

Who May Find This Useful

Beginners in particle physics looking for foundational concepts and book recommendations.

Moeen
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How can we theoretically predict half lives?
 
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It depends on the width of a resonance's peak...
If the width is Γ then you can associate the resonance's lifetime by:
Γ=\frac{1}{t}
So in general, to find the width you need to find the cross section as a function of energies... eg Breit Wigner cross section distribution...

In another way, you can calculate the time needed for a part of your particle to leave the potential via a tunneling - for example an alpha particle leaving a heavy nuclei in the potential of strong+coulomb interaction...
 
Last edited:
Thanks for your reply. I am new to particle physics. Can you suggest any good book for a beginner?
 
Moeen said:
Thanks for your reply. I am new to particle physics. Can you suggest any good book for a beginner?
Check out the books listed in this thread.
 

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