The nature of virtual photons in quantum electrodynamics

In summary, virtual photons are a type of energy exchange between two charged particles, but they are not the traditional photons of electromagnetic waves. They are called "virtual" because they arise from the equations of QFT for the electromagnetic field. They cannot be an unidentified type of boson, as they are specific to the electromagnetic field. This concept can be confusing and has been addressed in a paper by a reliable source. It is important to be respectful and civil when seeking help and discussing scientific concepts.
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Sophrosyne
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TL;DR Summary
Why do we call the virtual photons in quantum electrodynamics photons?
In quantum electrodynamics, the energy exchange between two charged particles is called a virtual photon, allowing the exchange of quanta of energy between the two charged particles. But these are not the traditional photons of electromagnetic waves. They apparently just arise from the equations of QFT, and are called "virtual".

But why call these "photons"? It seems it creates some confusion. Could they even theoretically be an as of yet unidentified type of boson?
 
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  • #2
Sophrosyne said:
[...] virtual photons [...]
STOP. :warning:

Please read this Insight and this one before proceeding.

Could they even theoretically be an as of yet unidentified type of boson?
No. o0)
 
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This is fine, Thank you for the links- I will study them. But I could do without the funny faces. I am a beginner sincerely trying to learn this stuff, and I don't need the snark. If you can't teach beginners without it don't hang out here.
 
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Sophrosyne said:
could do without the funny faces. I am a beginner sincerely trying to learn this stuff, and I don't need the snark. If you can't teach beginners without it don't hang out here.

Please note, if you think someone else's post violates the forum rules (and we have a rule about being civil with other members), please don't respond in kind in the thread. Use the "Report" button to bring the post to the attention of the moderators.
 
  • #5
Sophrosyne said:
They apparently just arise from the equations of QFT

They arise from the equations of QFT for the electromagnetic field. That's why they are called virtual photons and not virtual something else. You can have virtual other things (such as virtual gluons or virtual weak bosons), but they will arise from the equations of QFT for other fields, not the electromagnetic field.
 
  • #6
PeterDonis said:
They arise from the equations of QFT for the electromagnetic field. That's why they are called virtual photons and not virtual something else. You can have virtual other things (such as virtual gluons or virtual weak bosons), but they will arise from the equations of QFT for other fields, not the electromagnetic field.

OK this makes a lot of sense. Thank you very much!
 
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  • #7
Sophrosyne said:
OK this makes a lot of sense. Thank you very much!

Thank you very much for coming here to seek help in understanding QM and QFT. We really do appreciate people trusting us.

Your question is a common one, and one of our science advisers, also a professor of physics, just so you know its a very reliable source, has written a paper about this and other common 'questions':
https://arxiv.org/abs/quant-ph/0609163

Thanks
Bill
 

FAQ: The nature of virtual photons in quantum electrodynamics

1. What are virtual photons in quantum electrodynamics?

Virtual photons are particles that are not observable in the traditional sense, but rather exist as mathematical constructs in the theory of quantum electrodynamics. They are responsible for mediating the electromagnetic force between charged particles.

2. How are virtual photons different from real photons?

Virtual photons are different from real photons in that they do not have a measurable energy or momentum. They exist for a very short period of time and cannot be directly detected or observed. Real photons, on the other hand, have a measurable energy and can be detected by instruments.

3. What role do virtual photons play in quantum electrodynamics?

Virtual photons play a crucial role in quantum electrodynamics, as they are the carriers of the electromagnetic force between charged particles. They are constantly being exchanged between particles, allowing for the interaction between them.

4. Can virtual photons be created or destroyed?

No, virtual photons cannot be created or destroyed. They are simply mathematical constructs used to describe the behavior of particles in quantum electrodynamics. They exist as a temporary disturbance in the quantum field and then disappear.

5. How do virtual photons contribute to the uncertainty principle?

Virtual photons contribute to the uncertainty principle by constantly being created and destroyed in the quantum field. This creates fluctuations in the field, making it impossible to precisely measure the position and momentum of a particle at the same time.

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