Larmor precession of an electron in a magnetic field?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Larmor precession of an electron in a magnetic field within the framework of Quantum Field Theory (QFT). It specifically addresses the possibility of describing this phenomenon through the emission and absorption of virtual photons. The evolution of spin angular momentum is also examined, emphasizing the role of external classical fields in Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) as coherent states. Perturbative analysis is referenced, particularly the resummation of "soft-photon ladders," with a citation to Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields, vol. 1" for further details.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum Field Theory (QFT) fundamentals
  • Understanding of Quantum Electrodynamics (QED)
  • Concept of virtual photons in particle physics
  • Familiarity with spin angular momentum in quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the emission and absorption processes of virtual photons in QFT
  • Explore the concept of coherent states in Quantum Electrodynamics (QED)
  • Review perturbative techniques in QFT, focusing on soft-photon ladders
  • Read Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields, vol. 1" for in-depth theoretical insights
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, particularly those specializing in Quantum Field Theory and Quantum Electrodynamics, as well as students and researchers interested in the dynamics of electron behavior in magnetic fields.

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how does one describe the Larmor precession of a spin 1/2 particle in a magnetic field in terms of quantum field theory?
In QFT where the electromagnetic field is mediated by virtual photons, is it possible to describe the larmor precession of an electron as a series of emission and absorption of virtual photons? how does the spin angular momentum "evolve" over a series of events? This feels like a challenging question.. I really appreciate a helpful answer thank you.
 
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An external classical field in QED is described as a coherent state. In perturbative terms it's given by the corresponding resummation of the "soft-photon ladders". For details see Weinberg, Quantum Theory of Fields, vol. 1.
 
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