Quantizing Zero-Frequency Modes: A Challenge

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In summary, the conversation discusses the quantization of the EM field in a system with real permittivities and permeabilities. It mentions the use of classical modes and canonical variables, and how this method fails when trying to quantize the zero-frequency field. The question is posed whether there is a way to properly quantize static fields.
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Manchot
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Let's say you want to quantize the EM field in a system with real permittivities and permeabilities. You expand the fields into a superpositions of their classical modes, and note that pretty much every real spatial mode requires two real conjugate canonical variables to describe its time evolution. Then you quantize these variables in the usual way, and get oscillators out of them, along with the bosonic creation and annihilation operators. All of this works fine for the non-zero frequency fields, but fails on the zero-frequency field because it only requires one variable to describe its behavior: its amplitude. Is there a way to properly quantize static fields?
 
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Manchot said:
Let's say you want to quantize the EM field in a system with real permittivities and permeabilities. You expand the fields into a superpositions of their classical modes, and note that pretty much every real spatial mode requires two real conjugate canonical variables to describe its time evolution. Then you quantize these variables in the usual way, and get oscillators out of them, along with the bosonic creation and annihilation operators. All of this works fine for the non-zero frequency fields, but fails on the zero-frequency field because it only requires one variable to describe its behavior: its amplitude. Is there a way to properly quantize static fields?

You speaking many virtual photon zero frequency no energies, or another one? Analyszing Fourier Transforms (for ZERO only - not many) give the field. Yes, this need mathematic, No initial final Not in foam - I know this.

OR:

Field not there when no observers. Only probables do you mean this?.
 
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^ I didn't quite understand what you meant. To be clearer, I'm referring to the zero-frequency classical modes, i.e., the static solutions of Maxwell's equations. If you try to quantize them in the same way that you quantize the other modes, you fail because they only require one canonical variable to describe them and can't be described by Hamilton's equations. I'm wondering how to get around this.
 

1. What is the purpose of quantizing zero-frequency modes?

The purpose of quantizing zero-frequency modes is to accurately describe the behavior of physical systems, particularly in quantum field theory. These modes correspond to the lowest energy states of a system and are crucial in understanding the fundamental properties of matter and energy.

2. Why is quantizing zero-frequency modes a challenge?

Quantizing zero-frequency modes is a challenge because they represent the ground state of a system and have a frequency of zero, making it difficult to apply traditional quantization methods. Additionally, these modes often have infinite energy and require special techniques to properly incorporate them into the quantization process.

3. How does quantizing zero-frequency modes impact our understanding of physics?

Quantizing zero-frequency modes allows us to better understand the behavior of physical systems at the most fundamental level. It helps us to accurately predict and describe the properties of matter and energy, and has led to important advancements in fields such as particle physics and cosmology.

4. What are some techniques for quantizing zero-frequency modes?

Some techniques for quantizing zero-frequency modes include regularizing the infinite energy, introducing a cutoff frequency, or using a modified version of the traditional quantization methods. Other approaches involve using different mathematical frameworks, such as path integrals or operator methods.

5. How does the quantization of zero-frequency modes relate to the concept of vacuum energy?

The concept of vacuum energy arises from the quantization of zero-frequency modes. It refers to the energy associated with the lowest energy state of a physical system, which is often considered to be the vacuum state. This energy is thought to play a key role in the behavior of the universe and is a subject of ongoing research in theoretical physics.

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