Handbook Of Particle Physics

Literally thousands of elementary particles have been discovered over the last 50 years, their properties measured, relationships systematized, and existence and behavior explained in a number of cleverly constructed theories. As the field has grown so impressively, so has its jargon. Until now, scientists in other fields have had no single resource from which they can quickly reference an idea, acronym, or term and find an accessible definition and explanation. The Handbook of Particle Physics fills that void. In encyclopedic form, this unique work contains terms of interest in particle physics, including its peculiar jargon. It covers the relevant experimental and theoretical techniques along with terms from the closely related fields of astrophysics and cosmology. Designed primarily for nonspecialists with a basic knowledge of quantum mechanics and relativity, the entries preserve a degree of rigor by providing the relevant technical and mathematical details. Clear and engaging prose, numerous figures, and historical overviews complement the handbook's convenience both as a reference and as an invitation into the fascinating world of particle physics. Features * Historical overviews of the development of the field, the evolution of accelerators, and the development of multi-purpose detectors. * Descriptions of methods for determining particle properties, such as mass, lifetime, and quantum numbers. * Encapsulated reviews of quantum gauge field theories and the standard model. * Listings of all important particle accelerators and detectors with reviews of their aims and potential.