Method for solving notorious calculus problems speeds particle physics computations

For decades, theoretical particle physicists have struggled with vexing calculus problems called Feynman integrals. They are central to every calculation they make—from predicting how magnetic a particle called the muon should be , to estimating the rate at which Higgs bosons should emerge at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Now, theorists have found a way to solve the integrals numerically by reducing them to linear algebra. The method promises faster and more precise theoretical calculations, which are essential for searching for hints of new particles and forces. “Sometimes people come up with some deep mathematical insights into these Feynman integrals, but they actually don’t help you to calculate things,” says Ayres Freitas, a theoretical physicist at the University of Pittsburgh. “This method will help.” “It’s surprising that [the method] works so well,” says Stefan Weinzierl, a theoretical physicist at Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz who has written an 800-page book on the integrals . “In principle, it’s absolutely general, so you can treat any Feynman integral with it.” Feynman integrals have plagued particle theorists since the rise of quantum field theory in the mid–20th century. Each integral corresponds to one of the quirky diagrams concocted in 1948 by Richard Feynman to quickly figure out what to calculate for a particular particle interaction. For example, one electron can deflect...
Source: ScienceNOW - Category: Science Source Type: news