A Modern Introduction To Particle Physics
Bertha Simmons
This textbook provides an accessible yet comprehensive introduction to detectors in particle physics. It emphasises the core physics principles, enabling a deeper understanding of the subject for further and more advanced studies. In addition to the discussion of the underlying detector physics, another aspiration of this book is to introduce the reader to practically important aspects of particle detectors, like electronics, alignment, calibration and simulation of particle detectors. Case studies of the various applications of detectors in particle physics are provided.
This webpage also allows instructors to request a copy of the solutions manual. This eBook was published Open Access with funding support from the Sponsoring Consortium for Open Access Publishing in Particle Physics (SCOAP3).
Chapter 1: Introduction. Chapter 2: Interactions of Particles with Matter. Chapter 3: Electronic Signals and Noise. Chapter 4: Movement of Charges and Internal Amplification. Chapter 5: Response to Excitation. Chapter 6: Detection of Ionisation Without Charge Movement. Chapter 7: Gaseous Detectors. Chapter 8: Liquid Detectors. Chapter 9: Semiconductor Detectors. Chapter 10: Tracking. Chapter 11: Calorimetry. Chapter 12: Particle Identification. Chapter 13: Triggers. Chapter 14: Detector Systems and Applications. References. Index.
The authors of the book are physicists, passionate to pass on their vast knowledge about detectors to graduate and advanced undergraduate students in experimental particle physics. The book provides a coherent overview of the field, starting with the basics of detection techniques and bringing the reader to state-of-the-art detector systems of complex particle physics experiments. It addresses as well challenges of detector application, such as alignment and calibration, which are often neglected in textbooks. End-of-chapter exercises provide students with a deeper understanding of each subject. I highly recommend it not only to students, but also to those who desire to broaden their knowledge about detectors in particle physics.
Progress in elementary particle physics is driven by the development of radiation-detection technologies. From early photographic emulsions to the gargantuan modern systems that are deployed at particle accelerators and astrophysics experiments, radiation detectors use extraordinary means to disclose the nature and fundamental interactions of elementary particles. In Detectors in Particle Physics, Georg Viehhauser and Tony Weidberg offer an accessible and comprehensive introduction to this intricate world.
Addressed to graduate students in particle and nuclear, and more advanced researchers, this book provides the knowledge needed to understand and appreciate these indispensable tools. Building on their personal contributions to the conception, construction and operation of major detector systems at the DELPHI and ATLAS detectors at CERN, the authors review basic physics principles to enable the reader to grasp the fundamental operating mechanisms of gaseous, liquid and semiconductor detectors, as well as systems for particle identification and calorimetry. In addition to exploring core concepts in detector physics, another objective of the book is to introduce the reader to case studies of applications in particle physics and astrophysics.
The first edition of this book by the talented twins from Pakistan, which appeared in 1992, has been updated, with the chapters on neutrino physics, particle mixing and CP violation, and weak decays of heavy flavours having been rewritten. Heavy quark effective field theory and introductory material on supersymmetry and strings are also included.
CERN Courier is essential reading for the international high-energy physics community. Highlighting the latest research and project developments from around the world, CERN Courier offers a unique record of the ongoing endeavour to advance our understanding of the basic laws of nature.
A better textbook for Particle Physics 101 should have clear and concise explanations, relevant and up-to-date examples, and a good balance between theory and application. It should also be well-organized and easy to navigate.
Yes, there are many textbooks that are considered better than Griffiths for Particle Physics 101. Some popular options include "Introduction to Elementary Particles" by David Griffiths and "Particle Physics: A Very Short Introduction" by Frank Close.
Yes, "Introduction to Elementary Particles" by David Griffiths is a highly recommended textbook that covers the same material as Griffiths for Particle Physics 101 but in a more comprehensive way. It also includes additional topics and exercises for a deeper understanding of the subject.
It depends on the specific textbook. Some may require a strong background in advanced mathematics, while others may have more accessible explanations and examples. It is always beneficial to have a good understanding of mathematics when studying particle physics, but it is not always necessary.
Yes, using multiple textbooks can be a great way to gain a deeper understanding of Particle Physics 101. Different textbooks may have varying perspectives and explanations, which can complement each other and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the subject. However, it is important to make sure the textbooks are from reputable sources and cover the same material to avoid confusion.
The main focus of Thomson and Schwartz's book is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and theories in modern particle physics and quantum field theory. It covers topics such as the standard model of particle physics, symmetries and conservation laws, and quantum field theory techniques.
Yes, this book is suitable for beginners as it starts with the basics and gradually builds up to more advanced topics. It also includes helpful examples and exercises to aid in understanding the concepts.
Thomson and Schwartz's book stands out from other textbooks in its clear and concise explanations of complex theories and concepts. It also includes modern developments and applications in the field, making it a comprehensive and up-to-date resource.
Some basic knowledge of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics would be helpful in understanding the concepts in this book. However, the authors provide a brief review of these topics in the beginning chapters.
This book can be used for both self-study and classroom use. It includes exercises and problems at the end of each chapter, making it suitable for self-paced learning. It also serves as a comprehensive textbook for courses on particle physics and quantum field theory.
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I would definitely recommend David Griffiths' book on particle physics. I don't have my copy with me right now, but as I recall, the book explains what the different particles of the Standard Model are, as well as the various properties of particles that are important in modern particle physics. It also introduces the basics of quantum field theory, just enough to allow you to calculate cross sections and decay rates for various reactions. Toward the end, it shows you the basic ideas behind spontaneous symmetry breaking and the Higgs mechanism, which shows you where this prediction of the Higgs boson comes from.
If you want to get into more mathematical detail, another book I could recommend is Halzen and Martin. It dates back to 1984 but the physics is still basically correct. I've found that that book takes a lot more effort to work through - that is, you actually have to slow down and think about what you're reading, and work through some of the math, but as long as you put the time in, the understanding you gain is well worth it.
Griffiths seems to be a crowd favourite. Its last edition is from 2008, so it is not really that outdated. The book misses some new physics though, and it is sometimes slightly superficial, so here are some other very good options:
Cottingham, Greenwood. An Introduction to the Standard Model of Particle Physics. 2007. It does not assume previous QFT knowledge, but it only reviews it somewhat superficially. The thorough discussion is on particle physics, and when it comes to that, it is pretty detailed and up-to-date (e.g., massive neutrinos, etc.).
Schwartz. Quantum Field Theory and the Standard Model. 2013. It does not assume previous QFT knowledge. The first two thirds of the book introduce the techniques of QFT in a lot of detail (but with a very student-friendly approach), and the last third discusses particle physics. In this third part the author relies on all the QFT techniques presented beforehand to get into a rather deep analysis of the Standard Model and extensions thereof. The chapter on the precision tests of the SM is particularly good.