Pair production - which theory does it belong to

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical framework in which pair production is described, with participants exploring whether it falls under field theory, particle physics, or quantum physics. The conversation also touches on the mathematical understanding of pair production and related conservation laws.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the theoretical classification of pair production, seeking a mathematical rather than qualitative explanation.
  • Another participant asserts that pair production is described by quantum field theory (QFT), which is a field theory and a quantum theory used in particle physics.
  • There are repeated requests for book recommendations on pair production, indicating a desire for deeper understanding.
  • A participant mentions that pair production is part of scattering theory, which is a subdivision of QFT.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of understanding conservation laws and the relativistic energy-momentum relationship for grasping pair production.
  • A later reply requests clarification on how to apply the energy-momentum equation in the context of conservation laws related to pair production.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the classification of pair production, with some emphasizing quantum field theory and others mentioning scattering theory. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best theoretical framework and the depth of understanding required.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include varying interpretations of theoretical frameworks and the need for specific mathematical applications, which are not fully explored in the discussion.

71GA
Messages
208
Reaction score
0
I am wondering in which theory pair productioon is described? Is it field theory, particle physics or quantum physics? I am sorry for such a basic question, but i need this info to find some books which will explain pair production mathematically and not by waving hands... (like allover the web)

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Quantum field theory
This is a field theory, it is a quantum theory, and (nearly?) all calculations in particle physics use quantum field theory.
 
Would you recommend any books for pair production?
 
71GA said:
Would you recommend any books for pair production?

It would depend on how deeply you want to get into it. Judging by the work you did and the questions you were asking in this thread, you'll get a long ways just by knowing two things:
1) Pair production obeys all the conservation laws.
2) The relativistic energy-momentum relationship: E^2 = (pc)^2 + (mc^2)^2
 
I am wondering in which theory pair productioon is described?
Actually this is so called scattering theory. This is indeed a subdivision of QFT.
 
Nugatory said:
It would depend on how deeply you want to get into it. Judging by the work you did and the questions you were asking in this thread, you'll get a long ways just by knowing two things:
1) Pair production obeys all the conservation laws.
2) The relativistic energy-momentum relationship: E^2 = (pc)^2 + (mc^2)^2

Could you write down in my other topic, how i could use this equation? To achieve same ##h \nu## which i get by conservation of energy and conservation of momentum.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 87 ·
3
Replies
87
Views
9K