Feynman QED, Permanent Magnets, and Virtual Photons

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the nature of repulsive forces between permanent magnets as explained by Feynman's Quantum Electrodynamics (QED). It questions whether the momentum of virtual photons is responsible for this repulsion. Participants clarify that virtual particles, including photons, are mathematical constructs in QED and do not directly relate to physical reality. Additionally, there is mention of experiments that can make some virtual photons observable. The conversation emphasizes the distinction between theoretical models and actual physical phenomena.
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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