Introduction to Methods and Concepts in Particle Physics

Catalog description

Particle physics is the study of the fundamental nature of the universe, including its fundamental constituents and the fields through which they interact. This course introduces our current understanding, starting with a review of special relativity and quantum mechanics, before discussing their application to particle physics, the importance of symmetries, experimental techniques (including introductions to how particle colliders and detectors work), statistical and computing methods for data analysis, philosophical considerations in our quest for a fundamental understanding, and prospects for the future. Prerequisite: Physics 264L. Recommended prerequisite: Physics 141L/142L, 151L/152L, or 161L/162L.