The discussion centers on the concept of pair production via quantum tunneling, specifically examining the conditions under which a photon could convert into a positron-electron pair when the energy is insufficient (hv<2Me*c^2) and the implications of this scenario on the energy of the resultant pair.
Participants express differing views on the feasibility of pair production under the specified energy conditions, with no consensus reached on the possibility of tunneling or the implications for the energy of the resultant pair.
The discussion highlights limitations in understanding the role of energy conservation and the nature of quantum tunneling in the context of pair production, with unresolved definitions and assumptions regarding the "uncertainty amount."
Superposed_Cat said:a photon being converted to a positron-electron pair
Superposed_Cat said:we lack enough energy for this to happen (hv<2Me*c^2) but the difference is smaller than the uncertainty amount
Superposed_Cat said:If we have a photon being converted to a positron-electron pair, but we lack enough energy for this to happen (hv<2Me*c^2) but the difference is smaller than the uncertainty amount, such that tunneling may be possible, would the resultant pair have net negative energy? Would tunneling even be possible in this case? Any help appreciated.