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Klappentext This book introduces the lattice approach to quantum field theory. The spectacular successes of this technique include compelling evidence that exchange of gauge gluons can confine the quarks within subnuclear matter. The lattice framework enables novel schemes for quantitative calculation and has caused considerable cross-disciplinary activity between elementary particle and solid state physicists. The treatment begins with the lattice definition of a path integral and ends on Monte Carlo simulation methods. Other topics include invariant group integration, duality, mean field theory and renormalization group techniques. The reader is assumed to have a basic background in relativistic quantum mechanics and some exposure to gauge theories. Zusammenfassung This book provides a gentle introduction to the basic results in lattice field theory. The treatment begins with the lattice definition of a path integral and ends with Monte Carlo simulation methods. Other topics include invariant group integration! duality! mean field theory and renormalization group techniques. Inhaltsverzeichnis Preface; 1. Quarks and gluons; 2. Lattices; 3. Path integrals and statistical mechanics; 4. Scalar fields; 5. Fermions; 6. Gauge fields; 7. Lattice gauge theory; 8. Group integration; 9. Gauge-invariance and order parameters; 10. Strong coupling; 11. Weak coupling; 12. Renormalization and the continuum limit; 13. Asymptotic freedom and dimensional transmutation; 14. Mean field theory; 15. The Hamiltonian approach; 16. Discrete groups and duality; 17. Migdal-Kadanoff recursion relations; 18. Monte Carlo simulation I: the method; 19. Monte Carlo simulation II: measuring observables; 20. Beyond the Wilson action; References; Index.
