Lecture notes on the Skyrme model

Abstract: This lecture provides a pedagogical instruction to the basic concepts of the Skyrme model and its some applications. As the preliminary for understanding the Skyrme model, we first briefly explain the large $N_c$ expansion, chiral symmetry and its breaking. Next we give a brief review of nonlinear sigma model including the power counting scheme of the chiral perturbation theory, starting from the linear sigma model. We then give an exhaust explanation of the Skyrme model and its applications. After the presentation of the Skyrme model for baryons in free space, we introduce how to study the baryonic matter and medium modified hadron properties by using the Skyrme model. Finally we discuss a way to incorporate the lowest-lying vector mesons into the Skyrme model based on the hidden local symmetry. Some possible further developments are also covered.