General comments:

The problem sets are intended to stimulate your thinking about particle physics, and give you some familiarity with the the methods used in calculations at a level needed for intelligent reading of papers in the field.

FOLLOW THE NOTATION AND CONVENTIONS IN HALZEN AND MARTIN, and DO NOT simply try to look up solutions elsewhere---you won't learn much! There are a few errors in the solutions given in HM which I will try to point out, but they are generally correct. THE PROBLEMS SHOULD BE HANDED IN ON THE DAY INDICATED. Problem solutions will be put on reserve in the library after the due date. No late problems will be accepted without prior arrangement!

Cooperative learning is important:

You are STRONGLY encouraged to discuss the problems with other students, and to WORK TOGETHER on their solution. I am happy to discuss the problems and give hints, but you may learn more from your fellow students! I generally expect you and your study partners to have made a legitimate attempt at the problems before coming for hints so your questions are focussed.

Most particle physics is done in collaborations, some very large. Joint work on, and discussion of, the problem assignments will give you practice in working in a collaborative setting whether or not you go into the field. Such experience is expected by most potential employers of physicists. The only condition on the collaborative approach to the problems is that you then WRITE OUT YOUR OWN SOLUTIONS.

Homework assigments:

Send comments or questions to: ldurand@theory2.physics.wisc.edu

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© 1997, Loyal Durand