Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title INTRODUCTION TO STRING THEORY
Code MATH423
Coordinator Professor AE Faraggi
Mathematical Sciences
Alon.Faraggi@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2023-24 Level 7 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To provide a broad understanding of string theory, and its utilization as a theory that unifies all of the known fundamental matter and interactions.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Understand the properties of the classical string.

(LO2) Understand the basic structure of modern particle physics and how it may arise from string theory.

(LO3) Understand the basic properties of first quantized string and the implications for space-time dimensions.

(LO4) Develop an understanding of string toroidal compactifications and T-duality.

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Numeracy

Syllabus
 

The road to string theory

Special relativity and higher dimensions

Electromagnetism in various dimensions

The non-relativistic string

The relativistic point particle

The classical relativistic string

The Polyakov action

World-sheet currents

Solution of the open and closed string equations of motion

The quantum harmonic oscillator

The relativistic quantum open and closed string

The light-cone relativistic string

Covariant and light-cone quantization

T-duality of closed strings

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
 

Co-requisite modules:
 

Modules for which this module is a pre-requisite:
 

Programme(s) (including Year of Study) to which this module is available on a required basis:
 

Programme(s) (including Year of Study) to which this module is available on an optional basis:
 

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Written exam  120    70       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Homework 1  0    15       
Homework 2  0    15