Yagi K., Hatsuda T., Miake Y. Quark-Gluon Plasma. From Big Bang to Little Bang

Cambridge University Press, 2008. — 468 pp. — (Cambridge Monographs on Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics and Cosmology). — ISBN: 9780521561082 (Hardback) 9780521089241 (Paperback).This book introduces quark gluon-plasma (QGP) as a primordial matter composed of quarks and gluons, created at the time of the "Big Bang". After a pedagogical introduction to gauge theories, various aspects of quantum chromodynamic phase transitions are illustrated in a self-contained manner. The cosmological approach and renormalization group are covered, as well as the cosmological and astrophysical implications of QGP, on the basis of Einstein's equations. Recent developments towards the formation of QGP in ultrarelativistic heavy ion collisions are also presented in detail.Self-contained and accessible introduction to the physics of quark-gluon plasma
Suitable for use as a textbook; includes 120 exercises
Comprehensive coverage, including theoretical and experimental/observational aspects of QCD phase transitionsTable of ContentsWhat is quark-gluon plasma
Basic Concept of Quark-Gluon Plasma:
Introduction to QCD
Physics of quark-hadron phase transition
Field theory at finite temperature
Lattice gauge approach to QCD phase transitions
Chiral phase transition
Hadronic states in hot environment
QGP in Astrophysics:
QGP in the early universe
Compact stars
QGP in Relativistic Heavy Ion Collisions:
Introduction to relativisitic heavy ion collisions
Relativistic hydrodynamics for heavy ion collisions
Transport theory for pre-equilibrium process
Formation and evolution of QGP
Fundamentals of QGP diagnostics
Results from CERN-SPS experiments
First results from the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC)
Detectors in relativistic heavy ion experiments