Quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking

In summary, quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking is a phenomenon in quantum physics where particles can pass through potential barriers, allowing for the possibility of symmetry breaking. This occurs when particles behave as both waves and particles, allowing them to exist in multiple states simultaneously and "tunnel" through the barrier. It has applications in fields such as superconductors, quantum computing, and understanding subatomic particles. The Higgs boson is related to this process as it is responsible for giving particles their mass through symmetry breaking. However, studying quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking can be challenging due to the complexity and unpredictability of particles at a subatomic level and the difficulty of conducting experiments.
  • #1
Ranku
410
18
Does electroweak symmetry breaking involve quantum tunneling, just like GUT symmetry breaking?
 
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  • #2
What makes you think tunneling has anything at all to do with symmetry breaking?
 
  • #3
According to inflation theory, GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of fale vacuum through quantum tunneling. So does electroweak symmetry breaking also involve quantum tunneling?
 
  • #4
Ranku said:
According to inflation theory, GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of fale vacuum through quantum tunneling.

No it doesn't. You can have inflation without GUTs. Or for that matter, without ordinary matter (although in that case it would be hard to tell. Your premise is incorrect, so your question has no answer.
 
  • #5
Ranku said:
According to inflation theory, GUT symmetry breaking involves the decay of fale vacuum through quantum tunneling.

This is not correct. Inflation theory has nothing to do with GUT symmetry breaking; GUT symmetry breaking happens after the end of inflation.

Also, although the original "old inflation" models involved the decay of a false vacuum by tunneling, those models were found not to be viable. Newer inflation models have inflation ending by a "slow roll" transition that involves no tunneling.
 
  • #6
As noted, the OP question is based on a false premise, so this thread is closed.
 

1. What is quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking?

Quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking is a phenomenon in quantum physics where particles can pass through potential barriers, even though they do not have enough energy to overcome the barrier. This allows for the possibility of symmetry breaking, where a system can transition from one state to another without going through the intermediate states.

2. How does quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking occur?

Quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking occurs when particles behave as both waves and particles, allowing them to exist in multiple states simultaneously. This allows the particles to "tunnel" through the potential barrier and reach the other side, resulting in symmetry breaking.

3. What are the applications of quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking?

Quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking has various applications in different fields, such as in superconductors, where it allows for the flow of electrons without resistance. It is also used in quantum computing and in understanding the behavior of subatomic particles.

4. How is quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking related to the Higgs boson?

The Higgs boson, also known as the "God particle," is responsible for giving particles their mass. In the process of symmetry breaking, the Higgs field can transition from a symmetric state to an asymmetric state, resulting in the Higgs boson and other particles acquiring mass through quantum tunneling.

5. What are the challenges in studying quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking?

Studying quantum tunneling in symmetry breaking can be challenging because it involves understanding the behavior of particles at a subatomic level, which can be complex and unpredictable. Additionally, experiments to observe and measure quantum tunneling can be difficult and require advanced technology.

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