How do fields change if there's no void

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of fields in physics, particularly in the context of quantum field theory and the concept of a vacuum state. Participants explore how fields can change in strength without requiring additional physical space, questioning the implications of fields occupying space and the role of the vacuum state as a reference.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions where the "space" for an increase in field strength is found if fields are already present at every point.
  • Another participant references the vacuum state in quantum field theory as a reference state, suggesting it may not necessitate a concept of void.
  • Some participants argue that fields do not occupy physical volume, implying that multiple fields can coexist without spatial restrictions.
  • There is a discussion about the intuitive nature of fields and their spatial implications, with some expressing confusion over how fields can exist without taking up space.
  • Participants inquire about resources or textbooks that explain the concept of fields and their properties in a more accessible manner.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether fields occupy space and how changes in field strength can occur without additional spatial considerations. There is no consensus on these points, indicating ongoing debate and exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on specific interpretations of fields and vacuum states, which may vary based on definitions and theoretical frameworks. The discussion does not resolve these interpretations.

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If the value of a field at a point in space changes from (for simplicity) 2 to 5. Where is the space for the additional 3 found if there is already a field of x strength at every point?
 
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This is an interesting question I would like an answer to too. I am reading this:

"One of the primary roles of the vacuum state in quantum field theory has been to serve as a physically distinguished reference state with respect to which other physical states can be defined and referred."
 
roles of the vacuum state in quantum field theory has been to serve as a physically distinguished reference state

I wonder if they use vacuum state as "close enough for our purposes" and so don't really need to look at the concept of void.
 
What do you mean additional space? A field does not take up any physical volume of space.
 
My understand is obviously limited. But, if they say space is full of fields doesn't it follow that fields occupy a space? Besides, how can something have a location if the location does take up space?
 
No, a field does not take up a volume of space. There are no restrictions on the number or amplitude of fields in a given volume.
 
a field does not take up a volume of space.

This sounds counter intuitive. Is there a popular level book that talks about this?
 
Don't fields just run touch other fields? fields on fields.
 
Pjpic said:
a field does not take up a volume of space.

This sounds counter intuitive. Is there a popular level book that talks about this?

*shrug* Any physics textbook that involves electrodynamics should explain fields. It is a basic concept of physics. Griffiths Introduction to Electrodynamics is a good text.
 

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