Can Virtual Electrons Really Just Pop in and Out of Existence?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of virtual electrons and their relation to the law of conservation of matter. It is mentioned that electrons can appear and disappear, but this does not violate conservation of energy and electric charge. The term "popping in and out of existence" is questioned, but it is clarified that the electron exists even when not being observed. The conversation concludes with an explanation of virtual electrons and their role in conservation.
  • #1
omega-centauri
9
1
I am not sure if this is the right place to post this, so please let me know...?

If electrons pop in and out of existence, how does that relate to the law of the conservation of matter? The electrons can't just disappear. Are the electrons just visiting the other element in the molecule? Like with H2O is the electron not popping in and out of existence but not always with the hydrogen atom because sometimes it is with the oxygen atom?

Thank you!
OC
 
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  • #2
Please read this FAQ entry in the General Physics FAQ subforum:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=511176

Zz.
 
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  • #3
Yes, electrons and positrons can just appear and disappear. There is no such thing as conservation of matter. What you do have is conservation of energy and electric charge but both of these are conserved by the virtual electron-positron pair production you're talking about.
 
  • #4
I'm not sure saying the electron "pops in and out of existence" is quite accurate. It will certainly be in a different place whenever you measure it, but I would think it exists even when it isn't being observed.
 
  • #5
Drakkith, they are talking about virtual electrons that do indeed pop out of nowhere (along with a positron).
 
  • #6
dauto said:
Drakkith, they are talking about virtual electrons that do indeed pop out of nowhere (along with a positron).

Ah, that would make sense now, wouldn't it?
 

1. What are electrons?

Electrons are subatomic particles that have a negative charge and are found orbiting the nucleus of an atom. They are one of the fundamental building blocks of matter.

2. How do electrons affect the properties of matter?

Electrons play a crucial role in determining the physical and chemical properties of matter. Their arrangement and movement within atoms dictate how atoms interact with each other and how substances behave.

3. What is the csv of matter?

CSV (Charge, Spin, and Vortex) of matter refers to a theory that suggests that all matter is made up of tiny rotating vortices of energy. These vortices carry electric charge and spin, and their interactions give rise to the properties and behaviors of matter.

4. How are electrons involved in electricity?

Electrons are responsible for carrying electric charge, which is the basis of electricity. When electrons flow through a conductor, they create an electric current that can be harnessed for various purposes.

5. Can electrons be manipulated or controlled?

Yes, electrons can be manipulated and controlled through the use of electric and magnetic fields. This is the basis of many technologies such as computers and electronics. Scientists are also researching ways to control individual electrons for potential applications in quantum computing.

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