Force carrier particles i.e. gravitons, photons

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of force carrier particles, specifically gravitons and photons, and their role in mediating forces such as gravity and electromagnetism. Participants explore the theoretical implications and interpretations of these particles within the framework of physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how force carrier particles work, suggesting that if gravity is mediated by gravitons, there may be a continuous stream of gravitons around an object.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about the existence of force carrier particles, noting that the discussion is hypothetical and lacks substantial evidence.
  • A different viewpoint presents the idea that force carrier particles are a mathematical convenience, explaining that the Hamiltonian operator involves creation and annihilation operators without implying that actual particles are created or destroyed in interactions.
  • A participant expresses confusion regarding the existence of these particles, questioning how they can be considered present if they are also described as not actually appearing in interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus, as there are competing views on the existence and role of force carrier particles, with some expressing skepticism and others providing theoretical interpretations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying levels of understanding regarding advanced concepts like the Hamiltonian operator and the nature of force carrier particles, indicating potential limitations in participants' familiarity with the topic.

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Hello;

How do force carrier particles work? For example, if I drop an object, the force of gravity is carried by gravitons. Does this mean that there is a long stream of gravitons underneath/all around the object? Because the wave would need to be carried through the medium of gravitons. Is this true?

Thanks.
 
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Well, this is all hypothetical, so it may not be true. I'm guessing there isn't much evidence for force carrier particles?
 
They're a mathematical convenience.

The Hamiltonian operator of the force is an infinite sum of products of a finite number of creation and annihilation operators of particles.

For the electromagnetic force between two electrons, for example, or between an electron and a photon, those operators are of electrons and photons.

But that doesn't mean that any electron or photon is actually annihilated or created.

The photon being a "carrier" or "mediator" for the electromagnetic force only means that its operators appear in the Hamiltonian, not that they themselves actually appear in the interaction. :smile:
 
I'm confused... they're there, but also not there?

I have never heard of the Hamiltonian operator, I will google it.
 

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