The purpose of this textbook is to explain the Standard Model of particle physics to a student with an undergraduate preparation in physics. Today we can claim to have a fundamental picture of the strong and weak subnuclear forces. Through an interplay between theory and experiment, we have learned the basic equations through which these forces operate, and we have tested these equations against observations at particle accelerators. The story is beautiful and full of surprises. Using a simplified presentation that does not assume prior knowledge of quantum field theory, this book begins from basic concepts of special relativity and quantum mechanics, describes the key experiments that have clarified the structure of elementary particle interactions, introduces the crucial theoretical concepts, and builds up to the full description of elementary particle interactions as we know them today.

This particle physics textbook for senior undergraduates and early graduates explains the Standard Model of particle physics, both the theory and its experimental basis. The point of view is thoroughly modern. Theory relevant to the experiments is developed in detail but in a simplified way without needing full knowledge of quantum field theory.

Michael E. Peskin received his Ph.D. in Physics from Cornell University in 1978. He held postdoctoral appointments at Harvard, Cornell, and C.E.N. Saclay. In 1982, he joined the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, where he is now a Professor of Particle Physics and Astrophysics.