Instantons and Large N: An Introduction to Non-Perturbative Methods in Quantum Field Theory [Hardcover]

A highly pedagogical textbook for graduate students, exploring advanced topics of quantum field theory with detailed derivations and worked examples.This highly pedagogical textbook for graduate students explores advanced topics of quantum field theory focusing on instantons and large N. Including detailed mathematical derivations, worked examples and applications throughout, this instructional text delivers an in-depth overview of established results, providing students with the necessary tools to start research.This highly pedagogical textbook for graduate students explores advanced topics of quantum field theory focusing on instantons and large N. Including detailed mathematical derivations, worked examples and applications throughout, this instructional text delivers an in-depth overview of established results, providing students with the necessary tools to start research.This highly pedagogical textbook for graduate students in particle, theoretical and mathematical physics, explores advanced topics of quantum field theory. Clearly divided into two parts; the first focuses on instantons with a detailed exposition of instantons in quantum mechanics, supersymmetric quantum mechanics, the large order behavior of perturbation theory, and YangMills theories, before moving on to examine the large N expansion in quantum field theory. The organised presentation style, in addition to detailed mathematical derivations, worked examples and applications throughout, enables students to gain practical experience with the tools necessary to start research. The author includes recent developments on the large order behavior of perturbation theory and on large N instantons, and updates existing treatments of classic topics, to ensure that this is a practical and contemporary guide for students developing their understanding of the intricacies of quantum field theory.Preface; Part I. Instantons: 1. Instantons in quantum mechanics; 2. Unstable vacua in quantum field theory; 3. LlCí