Elementary primer for gauge theory, an

Gauge theory is now recognized as one of the most revolutionary discoveries in physics since the development of quantum mechanics. This primer explains how and why gauge theory has dramatically changed our view of the fundamental forces of nature. The text is designed for the non-specialist. A new, intuitive approach is used to make the ideas of gauge theory accessible to both scientists and students with only a background in quantum mechanics. Emphasis is placed on the physics rather than the formalism.Contents: IntroductionThe Einstein ConnectionWeyl's Gauge TheoryThe Aharonov-Bohm EffectIsospin and the New Gauge TheoryYang-Mills Gauge TheoryMaxwell Equations in Gauge TheoryLeptons and QuarksThe Weak InteractionThe Dark Age of Field TheorySymmetry Breaking in Gauge TheoryThe Superconductor AnalogyWeinberg-Salam Unified TheoryUnification and RenormalizationColor Gauge TheoryAymptotic Freedom and the Running Coupling ConstantTopology in Gauge TheoryFlux Trapping and VorticesDirac Magnetic MonopoleAppendix on Key Concepts in Group TheoryReadership: Students and researchers in high energy physics and mathematical physics.