Smart Algebra of Exp. on Pg 191 of Peskin & Schroeder

In summary, the LHS and RHS of the expression have the same number of terms, but the LHS has a term with a negative sign and the RHS has a term with a positive sign.
  • #1
mdb71
5
3
Hi all, I have a problem working out the algebra of the following expression in Peskin & Schroeder in a smart way to give the result. It is on page 191, regarding the numerator of the vertex correction function.
We want to get from the LHS to the RHS of the following expression
$$\bar{u}(p')[-\frac{1}{2}l^2\gamma^\mu + (z\not{p}-y\not{q})\gamma^{\mu}(z\not{p}+(1-y)\not{q}) + m^2\gamma^{\mu}-2m((1-2y)q^{\mu}+2zp^{\mu})]u(p)$$ $$ = \bar{u}(p')[\gamma^{\mu}(-\frac{1}{2}l^2+(1-x)(1-y)q^2+(1-2z-z^2)m^2)+(p'^{\mu}+p^{\mu})mz(1-z)+q^{\mu}m(z-2)(x-y)]u(p)$$
using
$$ q \equiv p'-p, \not{p}u(p) = mu(p), \bar{u}(p')\not{p'} = m\bar{u}(p'), \bar{u}(p')\not{q}u(p) = 0,\\
x+y+z = 1$$

Thanks a lot in advance!
 
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  • #2
In the LHS you have ##m^2##, while in the RHS you have ##(1-2z-z^2)m^2##. What is the relation between ##\bar{u}(p')## (LHS) and ##u(p')## (RHS)?
 
  • #3
mathman said:
In the LHS you have ##m^2##, while in the RHS you have ##(1-2z-z^2)m^2##. What is the relation between ##\bar{u}(p')## (LHS) and ##u(p')## (RHS)?
The argument of u is p, not p'. What do you mean what is their relation? They are spinors coming from the vertices which the propagators are attached. However, this is irrelevant; what is important here is the on shell identity - coming from the Dirac equation - by which we may simplify terms...
 
  • #4
Just solved; I'll post the scan of the working in the next few days just for reference as it is quite an annoying passage. Other than that, feel free to post your answers, it is an opportunities to see some smart tricks at play
 

1. What is the purpose of the "Smart Algebra of Exp." on page 191 of Peskin & Schroeder?

The "Smart Algebra of Exp." is a mathematical tool used in quantum field theory to simplify and manipulate complex expressions involving exponential functions. It allows for more efficient calculations and can help to reveal underlying patterns and symmetries in the equations.

2. How does the "Smart Algebra of Exp." work?

The "Smart Algebra of Exp." uses a series of identities and rules to rewrite exponential expressions in a more compact and manageable form. This involves techniques such as using the Baker-Campbell-Hausdorff formula and expanding the exponential function as a power series.

3. Can the "Smart Algebra of Exp." be applied to any exponential expression?

Yes, the "Smart Algebra of Exp." can be applied to any exponential expression, as long as it follows the basic rules of exponentiation. However, it is most commonly used in the context of quantum field theory and may not be as useful in other mathematical fields.

4. What are the benefits of using the "Smart Algebra of Exp." in quantum field theory?

The "Smart Algebra of Exp." can greatly simplify calculations in quantum field theory, which often involve complex and lengthy expressions. It can also help to reveal hidden symmetries and relationships between different terms in the equations, making it a powerful tool for theoretical physicists.

5. Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using the "Smart Algebra of Exp."?

While the "Smart Algebra of Exp." can be a useful tool, it may not always be the most efficient method for simplifying exponential expressions. In some cases, more traditional algebraic techniques may be more suitable. Additionally, the "Smart Algebra of Exp." may not be as helpful in fields outside of quantum field theory.

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