Is the Feynman diagram in The Big Bang Theory episode correct?

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SUMMARY

The Feynman diagram presented in The Big Bang Theory episode is deemed correct, but the corresponding equation is incorrect, leading to an erroneous result. The discussion references a specific formula involving integrals and delta functions, which is critiqued for its accuracy. The episode's scientific oversight is acknowledged, with a suggestion to consult Peskin and Schroeder, specifically page 131, for the correct formulation. This highlights the importance of precision in scientific representation in media.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Feynman diagrams in quantum field theory
  • Familiarity with integrals and delta functions in physics
  • Knowledge of quantum electrodynamics (QED)
  • Ability to interpret scientific literature, specifically Peskin and Schroeder
NEXT STEPS
  • Review Peskin and Schroeder's "An Introduction to Quantum Field Theory" for accurate equations
  • Study the application of Feynman diagrams in particle physics
  • Explore the mathematical foundations of quantum electrodynamics (QED)
  • Analyze the portrayal of scientific concepts in popular media for accuracy
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of quantum mechanics, science communicators, and anyone interested in the accuracy of scientific representation in television shows.

Basip
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Dear community!

I watched The Big Bang Theory and watched this episode. If you click on it you would get to a homepage - if you scroll down you would get to a section called Episode Questions -> Physics Bowl. According to the newspapers The Big Bang Theory have an employee who is scientist (Chemist or Physicist). He check all the formulas in the show.

But I think the Feynman diagram is correct, but the corresponding equation is wrong. And the result is wrong too. Would you say I am right with it?

But how would the correct formula be? And how would the answer be? I am just really curious!

Kind regards!

Here the formula from the show:

$$\left ( 2 \pi \right )^4 \int \left [ \bar{v}^{(s_2)} \left ( p _3 \right ) \left (i \sqrt{4 \pi \alpha}\gamma^\mu \right ) v^{(s_1)} \left ( p _1 \right ) \right ] \frac{i g_{\mu\nu}}{q^2} \left [ \bar{v}^{(s_4)} \left ( p _4 \right ) \left ( i \sqrt{4 \pi \alpha}\gamma^\mu \right ) v^{(s_2)} \left ( p _2 \right ) \right ] \times \delta ^{(4)} \left (p _1 - p _3 - q \right ) \delta ^{(4)} \left ( p _2 + q - p _4 \right ) d^4 q$$

PS! If you need the formula and the Feynmandiagram in a better quality, you can find it here in LaTeX.
 
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Physics news on Phys.org
The Numb3rs show was like this. A prof would write stuff on the board so Charlie would look smart. The math didn't always fit well with the show as it was added in after the story was developed.
 
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Dear Basip,
I didn't watch the show. Did follow your instructions and found your answers right underneath (towards the end of Physics Bowl). See Peskin and Schroeder page 131.
 

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