SUMMARY
This discussion clarifies the behavior of particles in Feynman diagrams, specifically in the context of beta plus and beta minus decay. The positron and antielectron neutrino are depicted moving towards the W+ and W- bosons, respectively, due to conventions in particle physics. The notion of antiparticles moving "backwards in time" is a mathematical abstraction rather than a physical reality; all particles progress forward in time. This visualization aids in understanding relativistic quantum mechanics, but it should not be interpreted literally.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of Feynman diagrams
- Basic knowledge of beta decay processes
- Familiarity with W bosons and their role in weak interactions
- Concepts of particles and antiparticles in quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
- Study the role of W bosons in weak nuclear interactions
- Explore advanced topics in relativistic quantum mechanics
- Learn about the implications of particle-antiparticle pairs in quantum field theory
- Investigate the mathematical foundations of Feynman diagrams
USEFUL FOR
Physics students, particle physicists, and anyone interested in the intricacies of quantum mechanics and particle interactions.