Theoretical Physics Text and Exercise Books: Volume 5: Gauge Theory of Weak Interactions: v. 5 - Tapa dura

More than a generation of Gennan-speaking students around the world have worked their way to an understanding and appreciation of the power and beauty of modern theoretical physics - with mathematics, the most fundamental of sciences - using Walter Greiner's textbooks as their guide. The idea of developing a coherent, complete presentation of an entire field of science in a series of closely related textbooks is not a new one. Many older physicists remember with real pleasure their sense of adventure and discovery as they worked their ways through the classic series by Sommerfeld, by Planck and by Landau and Lifshitz. From the students' viewpoint, there are a great many obvious advantages to be gained through use of consistent notation, logical ordering of topics and coherence of presentation; beyond this, the complete coverage of the science provides a unique opportunity for the author to convey his personal enthusiasm and love for his subject. The present five volume set, Theoretical Physics, is in fact only that part of the complete set of textbooks developed by Greiner and his students that presents the quantum theory. I have long urged him to make the remaining volumes on classical mechanics and dynamics, on electromagnetism, on nuclear and particle physics, and on special topics available to an English-speaking audience as well, and we can hope for these companion volumes covering all of theoretical physics some time in the future.

"Gauge Theory of Weak Interactions" treats the unification of electromagnetic and weak interactions, and considers related phenomena. First, the theory of beta decay is presented, followed by a discussion of parity violation, clarifying the importance of symmetries. After all necessary mathematical tools have been developed, the concept of a gauge theory is introduced. The standard model of weak interactions is thoroughly discussed as well as current problems such as the solar-neutrino problem. Finally, a glimpse is given of a possible Grand Unified Theory. Numerous worked examples and problems make this a unique text for an advanced course on gauge theories in particle physics.