Entry requirements

120 credits including Quantum Mechanics (1FA352) or similar. Knowledge in special relativity and electromagnetic field theory.

Learning outcomes

The course prepares for future work in, or in association to, those areas of quantum physics where an understanding of, and ability to deal with, relativistic effects are necessary or desirable.

Content

The Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations for free particles, and for particles in interaction with electromagnetic fields. Plane waves. Antiparticles. Non-relativistic reduction. The Feynman propagator. The Dirac equation for a particle in external fields. The hydrogen atom. Lorentz covariance for the Dirac equation. Symmetries. Scattering and decay, with applications in atomic, nuclear and particle physics.

Instruction

Lectures, in association with problem solving sessions.

Assessment

Written examination at the end of the course. Compulsory hand-in problems. The grade depends on the extent to which the goals of the course have been fulfiled. The grade 3 requires an ability to represent the main aspects of the theory, and to solve/treat standard problems within the scope of the course. The grade 4 requires a higher degree of understanding of the theory, and an ability to solve/treat problems of a more diverse character. The grade 5 requires a good understanding of the theory, and the ability to solve/deal with problems from most areas of the course.