Hidden symmetries of scattering amplitudes and of the Hydrogen atom

Particle Physics Theory seminar

Hidden symmetries of scattering amplitudes and of the Hydrogen atom

  • Event time: 2:00pm
  • Event date: 28th January 2015
  • Speaker: Simon Caron-Huot (NBI, Copenhagen)
  • Location: Higgs Centre Seminar Room, Room 4305,

Event details

Physical systems with unexpected, or 'hidden', symmetries have often played an important role in physics, beginning with the classical Kepler problem whose Laplace-Runge-Lenz vector ensures the closure of planetary orbits, and degeneracies of the Hydrogen spectrum.  I will argue that precisely the same symmetry governs a unique four-dimensional quantum field theory, a maximally supersymmetric (N=4) cousin of the strong-interaction Yang-Mills theory.

After reviewing how this symmetry has been exploited in recent developments aimed at solving this model, I will describe novel applications involving massive particles.

The combination of the Laplace-Runge-Lenz vector and relativity yields a novel way to calculate the spectrum of its Hydrogen-like bound states, including relativistic corrections. Based on 1408.0296.

About Particle Physics Theory seminars

The Particle Physics Theory seminar is a weekly series of talks reflecting the diverse interests of the group. Topics include analytic and numerical calculations based on the Standard Model of elementary particle physics, theories exploring new physics, as well as more formal developments in gauge theories and gravity..

Find out more about Particle Physics Theory seminars.