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MATH4271: Superstrings IV

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Type	Open
Level	4
Credits	20
Availability	Available in 2024/2025
Module Cap	None.
Location	Durham
Department	Mathematical Sciences

Prerequisites

None

Corequisites

Advanced Quantum Theory IV (MATH4061) OR Particle Theory (PHYS4181)

Excluded Combinations of Modules

None

Aims

This module is an introduction to String Theory, including supersymmetry and Superstring Theory.
To introduce superstring theory through its two-dimensional worldsheet conformal field theory.
To quantise string theory and show that the superstring spectrum includes all elementary particles thus unifying the fundamental forces including gravity.

Content

Classical String Theory.
Quantisation of String worldsheet theory.
String theory spectrum and spacetime interpretation.
T-duality and D-branes.
Supersymmetry.
Superstring theory.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

Having studied the module students will know the basic principles of worldsheet (super)string theory.
The relation between the (super)string worldsheet theory and spacetime fields which are de-scribed using quantum field theory in the corequisite modules.
The concept of duality whereby apparently different theories are equivalent, with T-duality as an example.

Subject-specific Skills:

Students will be able to apply a variety of advanced techniques in the area of string theory.
Students will be able to how symmetries and constraints of the worldsheet theory lead, af-ter quantisation, to a specific spectrum with a spacetime interpretation.

Key Skills:

The students will have developed the ability to operate in complex and specialised contexts close to the cutting edge of current research.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
Subject material assigned for independent study develops the ability to acquire knowledge and understanding without dependence on lectures.
Assignments for self-study develop problem-solving skills and enable students to test and develop their knowledge and understanding.
Formatively assessed assignments provide practice in the application of logic and high level of rigour as well as feedback for the students and the lecturer on students' progress.
The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity	Number	Frequency	Duration	Total
Lectures	42	2 per week in Michaelmas and Epiphany; 2 in Easter	1 Hour	42
Problems Classes	8	Fortnightly in Michaelmas and Epiphany	1 Hour	8
Preparation and Reading				150
Total				200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination		Component Weighting: 100%
Element	Length / Duration	Element Weighting	Resit Opportunity
End of year written examinations	3 hours	100

Formative Assessment

Eight assignments to be submitted.

More information

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