Undergrad Degrees of freedom of elementary particles

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that electromagnetic waves and photons possess two degrees of freedom, specifically related to their polarization directions and spin states. While these particles can move freely in three-dimensional space, their degrees of freedom are defined by intrinsic properties such as spin and charge, rather than their spatial movement. This distinction emphasizes that degrees of freedom pertain to internal characteristics rather than external motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave properties
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics concepts
  • Knowledge of particle physics terminology
  • Basic grasp of degrees of freedom in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the intrinsic properties of elementary particles
  • Explore the concept of degrees of freedom in quantum mechanics
  • Study the polarization of electromagnetic waves
  • Investigate the relationship between spin and charge in quarks
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics and particle physics, will benefit from this discussion.

Lapidus
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The EM wave and the photon have two degrees of freedom. Their polarization directions and spin states, respectively.

But they move in space, too. I mean light has the freedom to go in all directions in space.

Like a macroscopic ball in 3-D space, which can go all three directions, if there are no constrains.

So why are the degrees of freedom of elementary particle only their spins and charges (e.g. for quarks), i.e. internal properties, and not their freedom to move in space?
 
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It has to do with definition. Degrees of freedom refer to intrinsic properties. Direction or speed of motion are not intrinsic.
 
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