S-matrices for simple quantum systems

Abstract

Scattering processes are a standard topic covered in introductory courses on quantum mechanics and particle physics. Unfortunately, a full mathematical treatment tends to be overwhelming for undergraduate students. This article introduces some toy models that are easy to comprehend but still contain the essential features of quantum theory. We define a Hilbert space with state vectors and use creation/annihilation operators to construct transition matrices and S-matrices. We show how perturbation theory gives rise to Feynman diagrams and Feynman rules. We also discuss how we can use symmetry and group theory to restrict what interactions are possible.