Entry requirements

120 credits in science/engineering. Participation in Quantum Field Theory. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to

• explain the implications of conformal symmetry in different space-time dimensions
• explain the enhancement of conformal symmetry in two dimensions
• explain the appearance of conformal symmetry in second order phase transitions
• describe examples of two-dimensional conformal models
• explain what questions/problems can be addressed by string theory
• explain the different properties of relativistic point-particles and strings
• explain how the quantum string constitutes a consistent theory of quantum gravity
• solve the string equations of motion subject to given initial and boundary conditions

Content

Conformal field theories in D>2 and D=2 spacetime dimensions. Conformal symmetry in second-order phase transitions. Specific conformal models in D=2 dimensions. Description and classical motion of the relativistic point particle and the relativistic string. Quantisation of the closed and open bosonic string. Path-integral methods, ghosts, and scattering amplitudes.

Instruction

Lectures

Assessment

Hand-in exercises