Z factor in renormalization disappeared?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between bare and renormalized quantities in λø4 theory, specifically addressing the absence of Z factors in the conversion process. The bare 4-point function is expressed as Γ₀(s,t,u) and relates to the renormalized function Γ_R(s,t,u) through the measurement of λ_R at (s,t,u)=(0,0,0). It is established that λ_R equals Z²Γ₀(0,0,0), leading to the conclusion that Γ₀(s,t,u) can be correctly expressed as (1/Z²)λ_R plus additional terms, confirming the consistency of the renormalization procedure to order λ².

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of λø4 theory and its implications in quantum field theory.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of bare and renormalized quantities in quantum physics.
  • Knowledge of the role of Z factors in renormalization processes.
  • Ability to interpret mathematical expressions and equations in theoretical physics.
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  • Study the derivation of the renormalization group equations in quantum field theory.
  • Explore the implications of Z factors in different quantum field theories.
  • Learn about the physical significance of the 4-point function in particle interactions.
  • Investigate the role of perturbation theory in calculating renormalized quantities.
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The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, particularly those specializing in quantum field theory, as well as graduate students seeking to deepen their understanding of renormalization techniques and their applications in particle physics.

geoduck
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Suppose you have λø4 theory and calculate the bare 4-point function:

$$
\Gamma_0(s,t,u)=\lambda_0+\lambda_0^2f(s,t,u)\\
=\left[\lambda_0+\lambda_0^2f(0,0,0)\right]+\lambda_0^2\left[f(s,t,u)-f(0,0,0)\right]
$$

We then take a measurement at (s,t,u)=(0,0,0) and call the result λR. Then

$$
\Gamma_0(s,t,u)=\lambda_R+\lambda_R^2\left[f(s,t,u)-f(0,0,0)\right]
$$

But isn't this also the finite, renormalized \Gamma_R(s,t,u)? We didn't use any Z factors to convert bare to renormalized, instead we just plugged in a measurement.

Shouldn't the relation be \Gamma_0(s,t,u)=\frac{1}{Z^2}\Gamma_R (s,t,u)
 
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Never mind. When you make a measurement at (s,t,u)=(0,0,0), you're really measuring Z^2 \Gamma_0(0,0,0), since the pole of each propagator contributes Z and each external line has \frac{1}{\sqrt{Z}}. So \lambda_R=Z^2 \Gamma_0(0,0,0), leading to

$$\Gamma_0(s,t,u)=\frac{1}{Z^2}\lambda_R+\lambda_0^2\left[f(s,t,u)-f(0,0,0)\right]\\
\frac{1}{Z^2}\lambda_R+\lambda_R^2\left[f(s,t,u)-f(0,0,0)\right]\\
=\frac{1}{Z^2}\Gamma_R(s,t,u)
$$

which is correct to order λ2.
 

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