Introduction to particle physics with emphasis on quantum fluctuations

• Grant number: 14/04197-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2014
• End date: October 31, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Elementary Particle Physics and Fields
• Principal Investigator: Attilio Cucchieri
• Grantee: Natali Soler Matubaro de Santi
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 09/50180-0 - Study of hadronic interactions at high energies, AP.TEM

Abstract

The quantum world is granulated by the Planck constant. In accordance with Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle, the classical vacuum is modified by quantum fluctuations. These fluctuations may be interpreted as creation of virtual pairs of particles and antiparticles. Virtual particles cannot be directly observed, but their effects are fundamental for the understanding of the properties of elementary particles and of their interactions. Given the importance of quantum fluctuation, the objective of this project is their study using the theories of particle physics, quantum mechanics and special relativity. This study will be guided by a bibliographic sequence, of books and articles, aiming at the understanding of the properties of the quantum vacuum. (AU)