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Spontaneous symmetry breaking and Goldstone theorem (maybe even the Higgs mechanism) #50

Open ismasou opened 2 years ago

ismasou commented 2 years ago

About the author

I'm a postdoc researcher in theoretical high energy physics. I work mostly on heavy-ion physics, which involves studies of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) in a thermal setting.

Quick Summary

Usually, classical mechanics is taught in terms of Newtonian mechanics with forces leading to acceleration. However, mechanics can be more insightful if one works with Lagrangian/Hamiltonian mechanics. Newton equations are then derived from the principle of least action and conserved quantities (energy/momentum...) are derived using Noether's theorem. Noether's theorem introduces the concept of symmetries and states that a symmetry (time/space translation...) engender a conservation of physical quantity (energy/momentum...).

Due to the Goldstone theorem, if a continuous symmetry is spontaneously broken, a boson particle emerges in the model. This mechanism leads to different boson in physics theories. I think while we physicists believe we understand the mechanism, it is hard to develop a true intuition for it. The project will consist on explaining the Goldstone theorem by starting from an explanation of the principle of symmetries and Noether's theorem. We can then try to visualize Goldstone bosons in condensed matter physics, the main example I suggest is phonons and proceed to explain the importance of the theorem in the standard model. Lastly, if we are ambitious, we can try to explain the Higgs mechanism.

Target medium

I think a video explainer with different animation will be ideal. I'm open to other ideas.

More details

This is something I have been thinking about for a while to try to visualize, I haven't had time for it due to my day job. I'm open to collaborate with animator as well as other experts on the subject.

Contact details

Let's start a discussion first and decide where to go next from here.

Additional context

3b1b commented 2 years ago

To be honest, even just a good video on Noether's theorem would be a nice outcome from this. Do you feel like you have a vision in mind (or reference articles) for how you would explain that component?

Also, do you have any other links to talks/articles/storyboards which explains in what sense symmetry breaking corresponds to bosons emerging in this way?