Lattice QCD
Lecture notes
Introduction (PDF - 279 kB)
Lecture Notes (PDF - 795 kB)
Final Talk (PDF - 836 kB)
Abstract
Lattice gauge theories offer the possibility to investigate strongly coupled matter by means of first principle computer simulations which are only limited by the finite size of the lattice universe. In the recent past, these simulations have helped to uncover some of the secrets of the QCD vacuum such as the confinement of quarks and gluons and have provided quantitative facts of the more exotic states of matter such as the quark gluon plasma at extreme temperatures. Computer simulations put us into the position to take a glance at the state of matter which existed just 1 $\mu $s after the Big Bang. Thereby, simulations provide rich and colourful illustrations of the state of matter which are beyond the scope of experiments.
The present lecture provides a thorough introduction to stochastic methods designed for the simulation of quantum field theories. The construction of gauge theories suitable for computer simulations, the modern tools to control the finite size effects and recent developments in lattice QCD are discussed as well.
Kurt Langfeld
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of Mathematics & Statistics, University of Plymouth