Is Space Considered a Medium for Photons and Other Waves?

  • Context: Undergrad 
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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on whether space can be considered a medium for the propagation of photons and other waves. Participants assert that electromagnetic (EM) waves do not require a medium, as they can travel through various substances like glass, but not through a vacuum. The conversation also touches on concepts like virtual particles and the lowest energy state of space, concluding that while space is not empty, it is not classified as a medium in the traditional sense. The consensus leans towards the idea that space, despite containing fluctuations, does not serve as a medium for wave propagation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic waves and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concept of vacuum and virtual particles
  • Knowledge of wave mechanics, including longitudinal and transverse waves
  • Basic grasp of quantum field theory and its implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of electromagnetic waves in different mediums
  • Explore the implications of quantum field theory on the nature of space
  • Study the concept of virtual particles and their role in physics
  • Investigate the relationship between space-time and wave propagation
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental nature of space and wave propagation will benefit from this discussion.

  • #31
ZapperZ said:
And some people hate it with good reason (it is outdated!), and you should know well enough to not use it because it will only add unnecessary confusion to this!

What's next? Reference to the Caloric each time we have a discussion on Thermodynamics?

Zz.
Outdated means in physics disproved; physics is not fashion. I am not aware that the GR field concept was disproved.
 
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  • #32
ZapperZ said:
And some people hate it with good reason (it is outdated!), and you should know well enough to not use it because it will only add unnecessary confusion to this!

What's next? Reference to the Caloric each time we have a discussion on Thermodynamics?

Zz.

Outdated? How so? Because people don't pay it no never mind these days?
 

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