This book provides an introduction to the current state of our knowledge about the structure of
matter. Gerhard Ecker describes the development of modern physics from the beginning of the
quantum age to the standard model of particle physics the fundamental theory of interactions
of the microcosm. The focus lies on the most important discoveries and developments e.g. of
quantum field theory gauge theories and the future of particle physics. The author also
emphasizes the interplay between theory and experiment which helps us to explore the deepest
mysteries of nature. Particles Fields Quanta is written for everyone who enjoys physics. It
offers high school graduates and students of physics in the first semesters an encouragement to
understand physics more deeply. Teachers and others interested in physics will find useful
insights into the world of particle physics. For advanced students the book can serve as a
comprehensive preparation for lectures on particle physics and quantum field theory. A brief
outline of the mathematical structures an index of persons with research focuses and a
glossary for quick reference of important terms such as gauge theory spin and symmetry
complete the book. From the foreword by Michael Springer: ¿The great successes and the many
open questions this book describes illustrate how immensely complicated nature is and
nevertheless how much we already understand of it.¿ The author Gerhard Ecker studied
theoretical physics with Walter Thirring at the University of Vienna. His research focus has
been on theoretical particle physics in particular during several long-term visits at CERN
the European Organisation for Nuclear Research in Geneva. In 1986 he was promoted to Professor
of Theoretical Physics at the University of Vienna. Since 1977 he has given both basic lectures
in theoretical physics and advanced courses on different topics in particle physics e.g.
quantum field theory symmetry groups in particle physics and renormalisation in quantum field
theory.
