QED & Static Electricity: Is There a Connection?

In summary, QED explains the repulsion between charged particles as being caused by the exchange of virtual photons. This is a concept in quantum theories and is not limited to static electricity, which is a classical concept that still involves thermal movement of particles. QFT can also be applied at finite temperatures.
  • #1
skywolf
81
0
so i was reading about QED, and it said that when 2 charged particles repelled each other, it was because of virtual photons. is it true then that static electricity is caused by virtual photons, or is it an entirely different force all toghether?
 
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  • #2
It is true. The electromagnetic interaction in quantum theories is described by the exchange of virtual photons.
 
  • #3
And one more thing: static electricity is a classical (very rough) concept. I mean those particles (electrons and ions) still have thermal movement. Actually, we say that QFT is mainly thought and made at 0 K. Modern texts treat QFT also at finite temperature, meaning T>0 K.

Daniel.
 

1. What is QED?

Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) is a theory in physics that describes the interactions between electrically charged particles, such as electrons and photons.

2. What is static electricity?

Static electricity is a type of electrical charge that builds up on the surface of an object due to an imbalance of electrons. It can be produced by friction, induction, or contact with another charged object.

3. Is there a connection between QED and static electricity?

Yes, there is a connection between QED and static electricity. QED explains the fundamental nature of the electromagnetic force, which is responsible for the creation of static electricity.

4. How does QED explain static electricity?

In QED, static electricity is explained by the exchange of virtual photons between electrically charged particles. These virtual photons create an attractive or repulsive force between the particles, resulting in the buildup of static electricity.

5. Can QED be used to manipulate or control static electricity?

Yes, QED can be used to manipulate and control static electricity. By understanding the underlying principles of QED, scientists have been able to develop technologies such as electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and electrostatic precipitators to control and harness static electricity for various purposes.

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