Can Virtual Particles Be Observed in Experiments?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the observation of virtual particles, specifically addressing misconceptions about their existence. It is established that virtual particles cannot be directly observed; rather, experiments can detect real particles that emerge from virtual particles when energy is applied. The conversation highlights the need for a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics to grasp the nuances of virtual particles and their interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of particle physics
  • Familiarity with energy-matter conversion concepts
  • Knowledge of experimental physics methodologies
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  • Research the concept of virtual particles in quantum field theory
  • Study the principles of energy-matter conversion in particle physics
  • Learn about the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and its implications
  • Explore experimental techniques used to detect real particles from virtual particles
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Students of physics, researchers in quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of particle physics and their experimental validation.

alex7773
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Hi guys i don't know much about physics but I am interested in learning about it i have

According to wikipedia virtual particle hasnt never been observed but i think that they are wrong it has been observed in this experiment
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencet...-mirrors-Quantum-scientists-make-nothing.html

my question are:

1do virtual particles have matter/mass?

2how long do they last?

3what cause them?

4 Is it true that the larger they are the briefer its existence will be

Are photon virtual particles too?sorry if my grammar is bad english is my sec language please answer my question please
 
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alex7773 said:
it has been observed in this experiment

This experiment did not observe virtual particles; virtual particles are unobservable by definition. It observed real particles that had been formed by, heuristically speaking, adding energy to virtual particles and thus turning them into real particles. I say "heuristically speaking" because there are a lot of subtleties lurking here, and I would strongly advise you to spend some time learning about them before trying to draw any conclusions about what experiments like this one are telling you.
 
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