An introduction to the physics of elementary particles and confection of Mathematica demonstrations

• Grant number: 13/10453-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2013
• End date: June 30, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Elementary Particle Physics and Fields
• Principal Investigator: Ricardo D'Elia Matheus
• Grantee: Caique Meira Ronqui
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física Teórica (IFT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de São Paulo. São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

It is very important for undergraduate students to come into contact with cutting-edge subjects of physics as soon as they are able to tackle these subjects. In this project, we intend to enrich the candidate's education by going into introductory texts in Particle Physics, such as the book by D. Griffiths, "Introduction to elementary particles". We will complement the usual routine of reading and presenting book chapters with the programming, in the language of Mathematica, of routines that automate relevant calculations in the texts. These programs will enable the candidate to explore the subject with more depth, through various simulations and demonstrations. Furthermore, some of these demonstrations can be made available to other students or the general public, contributing to the general education in the field. (AU)