Quantum field theory is the application of quantum mechanics to systems with infinitely many degrees of freedom. This textbook presents quantum field theoretical applications to systems out of equilibrium. It introduces the real-time approach to non-equilibrium statistical mechanics and the quantum field theory of non-equilibrium states in general. It offers two ways of learning how to study non-equilibrium states of many-body systems: the mathematical canonical way and an easy intuitive way using Feynman diagrams. The latter provides an easy introduction to the powerful functional methods of field theory, and the use of Feynman diagrams to study classical stochastic dynamics is considered in detail. The developed real-time technique is applied to study numerous phenomena in many-body systems. Complete with numerous exercises to aid self-study, this textbook is suitable for graduate students in statistical mechanics and condensed matter physics.
• Offers two ways of learning how to study non-equilibrium states of many-body systems • Presents the universal real-time formulation of non-equilibrium states and the corresponding Feynman diagram presentation • Shows a multitude of applications
Contents
Preface; 1. Quantum fields; 2. Operators on the multi-particle state space; 3. Quantum dynamics and Green's functions; 4. Non-equilibrium theory; 5. Real-time formalism; 6. Linear response theory; 7. Quantum kinetic equations; 8. Non-equilibrium superconductivity; 9. Diagrammatics and generating functionals; 10. Effective action; 11. Disordered conductors; 12. Classical statistical dynamics; Appendices: A. Path integrals; B. Retarded and advanced propagators; C. Analytic properties of Green's functions; Bibliography; Index.
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