So Has Virtual Particles Been Proven To Exist?

In summary, the Casimir effect is a test for the existence of virtual particles that has been measured. However, virtual particles cannot be directly detected. Other experiments, such as the Compton effect and the Lamb Shift, can also provide evidence for the accuracy of Feynman diagrams as a representation of reality.
  • #1
Gold Barz
467
0
Or is it just straight out of the equations? has it been detected?
 
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  • #3
You can't detect them.That's what they are called virtual.Duhhhh !

However,you needn't go to Casimir effect to prove that Feynman diagrams are a correct symbolical representation of reality,i think a Compton effect is much easier to test/measure.

Daniel.
 
  • #4
Also the Lamb Shift.
 
  • #5
Well,let's see.1922 vs 1947.:wink:

Daniel.
 

FAQ: So Has Virtual Particles Been Proven To Exist?

1. What are virtual particles?

Virtual particles are subatomic particles that spontaneously appear and disappear in the vacuum of space. They are not directly observable, but their effects can be measured by their interactions with other particles.

2. How are virtual particles related to the existence of "empty space"?

Empty space is not truly empty, as it is filled with a constantly fluctuating energy field. This energy field can give rise to virtual particles, which then quickly annihilate each other, leaving the appearance of empty space.

3. What is the evidence for the existence of virtual particles?

The existence of virtual particles has been indirectly observed through various experiments, such as the Casimir effect and the Lamb shift. These experiments demonstrate the effects of virtual particles on measurable quantities.

4. Have virtual particles been directly observed?

No, virtual particles cannot be directly observed because they exist for such a short period of time and have no measurable mass or charge. They can only be detected through their effects on other particles.

5. How does the existence of virtual particles affect our understanding of the universe?

The existence of virtual particles is an important aspect of quantum field theory, which is a fundamental theory that describes the behavior of particles at the subatomic level. It helps us to better understand the nature of space and the interactions between particles.

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