Feynman QED, Permanent Magnets, and Virtual Photons

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interpretation of virtual photons in quantum electrodynamics (QED) as described by Richard Feynman. Participants clarify that while virtual particles, including photons, electrons, and positrons, are used mathematically to explain forces like magnetism, they do not have a direct physical reality. The conversation also references experiments that have made virtual photons observable, but emphasizes that these phenomena are theoretical constructs rather than tangible entities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum electrodynamics (QED)
  • Familiarity with the concept of virtual particles
  • Basic knowledge of magnetism and forces between magnets
  • Awareness of experimental physics related to photon visibility
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical framework of Feynman diagrams in QED
  • Explore the implications of virtual particles in quantum field theory
  • Investigate experiments that demonstrate the transition from virtual to real photons
  • Study the role of virtual particles in other fundamental forces beyond electromagnetism
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the theoretical underpinnings of magnetism and particle physics.

jmatejka
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I'm not making any statements here, only asking questions.

When I take two permanent magnets and I feel the repulsive force between them, Feynman QED says it is the momentum of the virtual photons "pushing" the magnets apart?

Experiments have been done, forcing some of these virtual photons to become "visible" photons?

Am I roughly correct? Thanks, John
 
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Hi John! :smile:

No, the virtual particles (not only photons, but also electrons and positrons, and not only "pushing" but also "pulling") in Feynman QED are just maths, they have nothing to do with reality.

For a full discussion, see the thread https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=302923" :wink:
 
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Much appreciated, Thanks!
 

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