How does QM represent the Poynting vector?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the relationship between classical electromagnetic (EM) fields and quantum mechanics (QM), particularly quantum electrodynamics (QED). It highlights that while classical theories describe EM fields, QED introduces photons as the fundamental carriers of electromagnetic interactions. There is a misconception that photons have trajectories and directions, which some participants argue against, emphasizing that a single photon cannot be described by a field. The conversation also notes that quantum field theory (QFT) incorporates fields, with particles being quanta of these fields, rather than replacing the concept of fields entirely. Ultimately, the dialogue clarifies the ongoing complexities in understanding the interplay between classical and quantum descriptions of electromagnetic phenomena.
Rockazella
Messages
96
Reaction score
0
It’s my understanding that the field, whether it is electric, magnetic or EM field/wave is more of a classical concept. QM or QED completely replaces the field idea with subatomic particle interactions and reactions.
In classical field theory it’s said that perpendicular to the propagation of an EM wave there are electric and magnetic fields. In QM the propagation of an EM wave is represented by a photon.

My question is how does QM represent the electric and magnetic ‘fields’ that are perpendicular the direction of the moving photon?

If anything I’ve said prior to the question strikes you as incorrect feel free to correct me.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Originally posted by Rockazella
It’s my understanding that the field, whether it is electric, magnetic or EM field/wave is more of a classical concept. QM or QED completely replaces the field idea with subatomic particle interactions and reactions.
In classical field theory it’s said that perpendicular to the propagation of an EM wave there are electric and magnetic fields. In QM the propagation of an EM wave is represented by a photon.

My question is how does QM represent the electric and magnetic ‘fields’ that are perpendicular the direction of the moving photon?

If anything I’ve said prior to the question strikes you as incorrect feel free to correct me.

Surprise! Quantum Field Theory has fields in it!

The fields are described in the Lagrangean, which is where all QFT starts. Indeed the Maxwell field is part of the QED Lagrangean. After they quantize they still have fields. The particles (bosons) are quanta of the fields, which doesn't mean they replace the fields but rather they add quantum behavior. There has been lately a move by some physicists to remove particles entirely and do quantum field theory with just the fields.
 
Originally posted by Rockazella
electric and magnetic ‘fields’ that are perpendicular the direction of the moving photon?

As I said so many times before in these forums: I think this is a misconception.
Let me please state again my opinion:
- There is no such thing as a 'photon trajectory'.
- Thus, there is no 'direction of the moving photon'
- A single photon cannot be described by a field whatsoever.

Rockazella, I think what you're talking about is the Poynting vector, i.e. the vector of energy flow within an e.m. field - a purely classical concept.
 
So I know that electrons are fundamental, there's no 'material' that makes them up, it's like talking about a colour itself rather than a car or a flower. Now protons and neutrons and quarks and whatever other stuff is there fundamentally, I want someone to kind of teach me these, I have a lot of questions that books might not give the answer in the way I understand. Thanks
Back
Top