The discussion revolves around the nature of photons, specifically addressing the question of how photons, defined as particles, can exhibit a wavelength. Participants explore the concept of wave-particle duality and the implications of quantum field theory on the classification of photons.
Participants express differing views on the classification of photons, with some agreeing on the concept of wave-particle duality while others argue against it, stating that photons are neither. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these perspectives.
Participants note the complexity of photon behavior and the limitations of traditional classifications, indicating that the definitions of particles and waves may not fully capture the nature of photons as described by quantum field theory.
tom.stoer said:According to modern quantum field theory the photon is neither a particle nor a wave.
But there a situations (experiments) where we observe photons with a behavior as if they were particles. And there are (other) situations were we observe photons with a behavior as if they were waves.
Both behaviors are mutually exclusive, so the common term wave-particle-duality and the explanation that they are both is missleading. They a neither.