Peskin Eq 11.72, mathematical identity

In summary, the conversation discusses an equality stated in Eq 11.72 in the QFT text by Peskin, which suggests that the logarithm of a certain expression is equal to the derivative of another expression evaluated at a specific value. The speaker is unsure of how this identity follows and provides a differentiation to support their confusion. They also mention a helpful identity in the end.
  • #1
Hao
93
0
In Eq 11.72 in the QFT text by Peskin, the following equality is stated:

[tex]i\int\frac{d^{d}k_{E}}{(2\pi)^{d}}\log(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})=-i\frac{\partial}{\partial\alpha}\int\frac{d^{d}k_{E}}{(2\pi)^{d}}\frac{1}{(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})^{\alpha}}|_{\alpha=0}[/tex]

This suggests that

[tex]\log(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})=-\frac{\partial}{\partial\alpha}\frac{1}{(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})^{\alpha}}|_{\alpha=0}[/tex]

However, I can't see how this identity follows. Differentiating the right hand side gives

[tex]-\frac{\partial}{\partial\alpha}\frac{1}{(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})^{\alpha}}|_{\alpha=0}=\frac{\alpha}{(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})^{\alpha+1}}|_{\alpha=0}\rightarrow\frac{0}{(k_{E}^{2}+m^{2})^{1}}[/tex]

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
[tex]\partial_\alpha x^\alpha = \partial_\alpha e^{\alpha \log x} = e^{\alpha \log x} \log x= x^\alpha \log x[/tex]
 
  • #3
Awesome!

Thanks!
 

Related to Peskin Eq 11.72, mathematical identity

1. What is Peskin Eq 11.72?

Peskin Eq 11.72 is a mathematical identity used in the field of quantum field theory. It is also known as the "Ward-Takahashi identity" and is used to prove the conservation of current in gauge theories.

2. What is the significance of Eq 11.72?

Eq 11.72 is significant because it is a fundamental mathematical identity that helps us understand the behavior of particles in quantum field theory. It is used to derive important physical principles and make predictions about particle interactions.

3. How is Eq 11.72 derived?

Eq 11.72 is derived from the Noether's theorem, which states that for every continuous symmetry in a physical system, there is a corresponding conserved current. By applying this theorem to gauge theories, we can derive Eq 11.72.

4. Can Eq 11.72 be applied to other fields of science?

Yes, Eq 11.72 can be applied to other fields of science, such as condensed matter physics and statistical mechanics. It is a general mathematical identity that can be used in various contexts to understand the behavior of particles and fields.

5. Are there any limitations to using Eq 11.72?

While Eq 11.72 is a powerful tool in quantum field theory, it does have some limitations. It is only applicable to gauge theories and cannot be used in other types of physical systems. Additionally, its applications may be limited by the complexity of the system being studied.

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