PHS3302 · Relativity and particle physics

Overview

In this unit, you will explore fundamental concepts in particle physics as a range of specialised topics. Core concepts include relativistic kinematics, decay rates, and scattering cross sections, fundamental particles and forces in the Standard Model of Particle Physics, symmetries and conservation laws, and perturbation theory. Specific advanced topics include: the relativistic description of fermions and its consequences, including antimatter; the discoveries of leptons and quarks; Quantum Electrodynamics (QED); Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD), including QCD confinement with mesons and baryons; the Weak Force; Electroweak Unification; and the Higgs Mechanism; Feynman Diagrams; and “Flavour Physics", including quark mixing and neutrino oscillations. The descriptions of the experimental and computational techniques used in particle physics are woven throughout the unit.

Areas of study: Astrophysics Physics

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe and perform calculations associated with fundamental concepts in particle physics.
2. Apply numerical modelling to solve problems in particle physics.
3. Demonstrate awareness of scientific computing methods and visualization.
4. Demonstrate an ability to work in teams and to communicate and discuss physics concepts.
5. Find solutions to new problems in particle physics on the basis of general principles, and evaluate the appropriateness of their proposed models or solutions.

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (approximately 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer-directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.