Are Maxwell's Equations True at the Quantum Scale?

In summary, Newtonian mechanics is a useful approximation for large objects with relatively small speeds, although it is not considered entirely true. Similarly, Maxwell's equations are also a macroscopic approximation for quantum electrodynamics and can be used for single-photon experiments in certain cases. However, they are only true in the Classical Physics subforum.
  • #1
aliens123
75
5
Newtonian mechanics is considered an extremely valid "approximation" for large objects whose speed relatively small (compared to the speed of light).

But, we generally acknowledge that they aren't "true," even though they are still useful. My question is are Maxwell's equations similar in this respect? In other words, I know that at a certain scale they are useful, just like Newtonian mechanics is, but I was wondering if they are still "true" at the quantum scale.

There are times when we treat a photon as a wave and times when we treat it as a particle. When we are treating individual photons as waves do Maxwell's equations still hold? Or are they just approximations for large amounts of photons?
 
  • Like
Likes Fraser MacDonald
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
aliens123 said:
My question is are Maxwell's equations similar in this respect?
Yes. They are the macroscopic approximation of quantum electrodynamics. They work when individual photons are not relevant, although they can sometimes be used for single-photon experiments as well (in parts where the quantization is not relevant, e. g. in mirrors and similar optical elements).
 
  • Like
Likes Fraser MacDonald and Thomas Tucker
  • #3
Maxwell's equations are true as long as you're posting in the Classical Physics subforum.

(Although it might be better to say that the Classical Physics subforum is the one where Maxwell's equations are true).
 
  • Like
Likes Fraser MacDonald

1. Are Maxwell's equations considered to be laws of nature?

Yes, Maxwell's equations are considered to be fundamental laws of nature that describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields.

2. Who developed Maxwell's equations?

Scottish physicist James Clerk Maxwell developed and published the equations in the 1860s.

3. Do Maxwell's equations accurately describe all electromagnetic phenomena?

No, while Maxwell's equations are incredibly accurate and have been extensively tested, they do not fully account for all electromagnetic phenomena. For example, they do not account for quantum effects.

4. Can Maxwell's equations be simplified or modified?

Yes, there are various forms of Maxwell's equations that can be simplified or modified to better describe certain situations. Additionally, new equations have been developed to account for phenomena that were not known at the time Maxwell's equations were first published.

5. Are there any known limitations or exceptions to Maxwell's equations?

Maxwell's equations have been found to accurately describe electromagnetic phenomena in a wide range of situations, but there are some exceptions and limitations. For example, they do not account for the effects of relativity, and they break down at extremely small scales where quantum mechanics becomes important.

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
257
Replies
3
Views
794
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
11K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
9
Views
7K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
788
Back
Top