Magnetic & electric fields in QM?

In summary, Quantum theory does not require magnetic fields at all. In QM, the fundamental objects are potentials rather than fields. The magnetic moment, such as the Bohr magneton, is only used to calculate the magnetic potential energy, which is the potential interaction energy between an external magnetic field and a dipole. It is important to distinguish between the magnetic moment and magnetic potential when understanding these concepts.
  • #1
pivoxa15
2,255
1
All atoms have magnetic moments but does Quantum theory require magnetic fields at all?

Does Quantum theory require electric fields?
 
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  • #2
In QM the potentials are the fundamental objects, as compared to the classical electrodynamics where the fields are measurable and viewed as fundamental, while the potential are only mathematically convenient objects.
 
  • #3
I know the magnetic moment is important in QM such as the Bohr magneton. But you could say that it is used to calculate the magnetic potential energy.
 
  • #4
The magnetic moment is one thing, the magnetic potential [itex] \mathbf{A} [/itex] is another. And the Bohr magneton is just a number (it had been previously introduced in 1912 by the Romanian physicist Stefan Procopiu). And the magnetic potential energy is usually the potential interaction energy b/w an external magnetic field and a dipole. So you need to to brush up your knowledge of these concepts.
 

1. What is the difference between magnetic and electric fields in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, both magnetic and electric fields are considered as fundamental forces in the universe. The main difference between these two fields is that electric fields are created by electrically charged particles, while magnetic fields are created by moving electrically charged particles. In other words, electric fields are static, whereas magnetic fields are dynamic and require a moving charge to exist.

2. How do magnetic and electric fields affect particles in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, particles with an electric charge interact with both magnetic and electric fields. The strength and direction of these fields determine the behavior and movement of the particles. Electric fields exert a force on charged particles, causing them to accelerate in a certain direction. Magnetic fields, on the other hand, can change the direction of a moving charged particle, but do not directly affect its speed.

3. Can magnetic and electric fields be quantized in quantum mechanics?

Yes, both magnetic and electric fields can be quantized in quantum mechanics. This means that these fields are made up of discrete units of energy, known as photons. The quantization of these fields is essential in explaining the behavior of particles at the quantum level, as it allows for the creation and destruction of particles through interactions with these fields.

4. How does quantum mechanics explain the relationship between magnetic and electric fields?

In quantum mechanics, electric and magnetic fields are considered to be two aspects of the same fundamental force, known as the electromagnetic force. This is explained by the theory of quantum electrodynamics, which describes the interactions between charged particles and their associated fields. This theory has been extensively tested and is considered one of the most successful theories in physics.

5. Can magnetic and electric fields be observed at the quantum level?

Yes, magnetic and electric fields can be observed at the quantum level through experiments and measurements. These fields are fundamental to many phenomena in quantum mechanics, such as the behavior of charged particles in particle accelerators and the spin of particles. Although they cannot be directly seen, their effects can be detected and measured through various experimental techniques.

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