QED: Electron Proton Scattering Differential Cross Section

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In summary, QED (Quantum Electrodynamics) is the theory that describes the interaction between electrons and photons. In the context of electron proton scattering differential cross section, QED is used to calculate the probability of an electron interacting with a proton and scattering at a particular angle. The electron proton scattering differential cross section is typically measured by colliding a beam of electrons with a target of protons and measuring the number and angle of scattered electrons. Several factors can affect the differential cross section, including the energy and angle of the incoming electron, the size and composition of the target proton, and the presence of other particles. This quantity is significant in particle physics as it provides information about the internal structure of protons and their interactions with other particles
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Silviu
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Hello! We derived the electron proton scattering differential cross section using QED and I noticed that the equation doesn't depend on the impact parameter. Using classical EM one can calculate the deflection of an incoming electron as a function of the impact parameter, so I was wondering how do you take that into account in the case of QED? Thank you!
 
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In Quantum Electrodynamics (QED), the electron-proton scattering differential cross section is obtained by calculating the scattering amplitude. This calculation takes into account the interaction between the electron and the proton, but does not explicitly include the impact parameter. However, the impact parameter can be taken into account through the scattering amplitude itself, as it depends on the relative orientation of the electron and proton wave functions. Thus, while the impact parameter is not explicitly included in the differential cross section equation, it can still be considered when calculating the scattering amplitude.
 

1. What is QED in relation to electron proton scattering differential cross section?

QED stands for Quantum Electrodynamics, which is the theory that describes the interaction between electrons and photons. In the context of electron proton scattering differential cross section, QED is used to calculate the probability of an electron interacting with a proton and scattering at a particular angle.

2. How is the electron proton scattering differential cross section measured?

The electron proton scattering differential cross section is typically measured by colliding a beam of electrons with a target of protons and measuring the number and angle of scattered electrons. This data is then used to calculate the differential cross section, which is a measure of the probability of the scattering event.

3. What factors affect the electron proton scattering differential cross section?

The electron proton scattering differential cross section is influenced by several factors, including the energy of the incoming electron, the angle of scattering, and the size and composition of the target proton. Other factors such as the presence of other particles and the strength of the electromagnetic force can also impact the differential cross section.

4. What is the significance of the electron proton scattering differential cross section in particle physics?

The electron proton scattering differential cross section is an important quantity in particle physics as it provides information about the internal structure of protons and their interactions with other particles. It is also used to test the predictions of QED and other theoretical models.

5. How does the electron proton scattering differential cross section change with increasing energy?

As the energy of the incoming electron increases, the electron proton scattering differential cross section also increases. This is because at higher energies, the electrons have a higher probability of interacting with the protons, resulting in a larger number of scattered electrons. However, at very high energies, the cross section may decrease due to the effects of quantum corrections and other factors.

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