Is it possible to detect an electrostatic field?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the detection of electrostatic fields and the nature of virtual photons. It establishes that while an electron generates a detectable electric field, virtual photons, which are integral to perturbation theory, cannot be observed directly. The electrostatic field is characterized as a coherent state of the electromagnetic field, distinct from photon fields. For a comprehensive understanding of deriving a Coulomb field from quantum field theory, refer to Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields, Volume I," particularly the chapter on soft-photon physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic fields and their properties
  • Familiarity with quantum field theory concepts
  • Knowledge of perturbation theory in quantum mechanics
  • Basic grasp of Feynman diagrams and their applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields, Volume I" for insights on soft-photon physics
  • Explore the principles of perturbation theory in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the role of Feynman diagrams in quantum field theory
  • Investigate the properties of coherent states in electromagnetic fields
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, quantum field theorists, and students of advanced electromagnetism seeking to deepen their understanding of electrostatic fields and virtual particles.

Philipsmett
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If the electron creates an electric field around itself that can be detected,then the electrostatic field is real? So why was not the "virtual" photon found?
 
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An electrostatic field is a special coherent state of the em. field, not a photon field. Virtual photons cannot be found be definition. They are calculational pieces used in perturbation theory. To get a Coulomb field from the formalism you need to resum infinitely many terms of Feyman diagrams. For the details, see Weinberg, QT of Fields vol. I (the chapter on soft-photon physics).
 

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