The discussion centers on the concept of massless particles, particularly photons, and their implications in relativistic mechanics. Participants clarify that mass, or "rest mass," is not applicable to photons as they are never at rest; instead, they possess energy that can be expressed as equivalent mass using the equation E=mc². The conversation also delves into the nature of point particles, explaining that while electrons are often referred to as point particles, they are actually excitations of quantum fields and do not have a defined size. This distinction is crucial for understanding particle behavior in quantum field theory and general relativity.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of particle behavior and the nature of mass in quantum mechanics and relativity.
I imagine there is, but I don't know personally.Phrak said:The idea makes some sense, even if it is quantum mechanics. Is there a model for how the Higgs field itself has mass, or simply a required parameter of some sort?