Year: 2022
Type: article
Abstract: We review the description of tunnelling phenomena in the semi-classical approximation in ordinary quantum mechanics and in quantum field theory. In particular, we describe in detail the calculation, up to the first quantum corrections, of the decay probability per unit time of a metastable ground state. We apply the relevant formalism to the case of the standard model of electroweak interactions, whose ground state is metastable for sufficiently large values of the top quark mass. Finally, we discuss the impact of gravitational interactions on the calculation of the tunnelling rate.
Institutions: University of Oxford, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, University of Milan, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Milano, University of Padua, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Padova, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Genova, University of Genoa
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,930
OpenAlex ID: W4229455729