So, do vacuum fluctuations exist?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the contentious topic of quantum vacuum fluctuations, with many physicists questioning their existence due to a lack of definitive predictions from Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and experimental confirmation. The term "vacuum fluctuations" is identified as vague, leading to confusion and imprecise discussions. Participants are encouraged to formulate precise questions related to quantum field theory (QFT) to facilitate meaningful dialogue. The thread concludes with a recommendation to avoid ambiguous terminology in future discussions.

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  • Understanding of Quantum Electrodynamics (QED)
  • Familiarity with Quantum Field Theory (QFT)
  • Knowledge of multiverse theory concepts
  • Ability to interpret scientific discussions and articles
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  • Research the implications of Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) on vacuum fluctuations
  • Explore the mathematical framework of Quantum Field Theory (QFT)
  • Investigate the relationship between vacuum fluctuations and multiverse theory
  • Read the insights article on vacuum fluctuations linked in the discussion
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Physicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone interested in the nuances of quantum mechanics and its implications for modern theories.

davidge
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I'd like to know the reasons many physicists support the existence of quantum vacuum fluctuations.

It seems that QED doesn't predict such phenomenum, nor any experiment has undoubtedly confirmed it, at least on the grounds of QED.
 
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How does that affects famous theories like multiverse theory (which supposes quantum fluctuations)?
 
@davidge, please read the insights article linked to, and its accompanying discussion thread, which can be found in full here:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/the-vacuum-fluctuation-myth-comments.892500/

A key takeway from that article and discussion is that "vacuum fluctuations" is a vague term. That means your questions and statements in this thread do not have a well-defined meaning. So they can't be discussed in the form in which you are stating them.

If you want to discuss a precise question involving quantum field theory, you can start a new thread in which you state a precise question; that means you either should not use the term "vacuum fluctuations" at all, or you should make clear exactly what it refers to in the math of QFT.

In the meantime, this thread is closed.
 
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