Clarifying the Misconception: Do Positrons Really Travel Backward in Time?

In summary, this diagram represents a standard electron-positron collision, and although positrons can be interpreted as traveling backwards in time, in reality they are just a different type of particle traveling forward in time. Therefore, this collision cannot be seen as a form of time travel.
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stevenytc
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[URL]http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/ba/Feynman_EP_Annihilation.svg[/URL]

this is a standard electron-positron collision. but if positrons can be interpreted as electrons going backward in time (as suggested by Feynman and Wheeler), then can this diagram be interpreted as the electron, originally moving forward in time, releases 2 photons and go backward in time. or, in other words, it "time travels" to the past?

hmm... have i missed out something?
 
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You often see it stated that positrons travel backwards in time, but it's a misinterpretation. The fact is, the Dirac equation describes two different types of particles, positrons and electrons, and they both travel forward in time!
 

1. What is a time traveling electron?

A time traveling electron is a hypothetical particle that can travel through time, either forwards or backwards.

2. How is time travel possible for an electron?

According to the theory of relativity, time travel is possible for particles moving at close to the speed of light. The faster an electron moves, the slower time passes for it, allowing it to potentially travel through time.

3. Can we observe a time traveling electron in action?

Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that time traveling electrons exist. The concept is purely theoretical and has not been observed or proven in any experiments.

4. What are the implications of time traveling electrons?

If time traveling electrons were to exist, it would challenge our understanding of time and the laws of physics. It could potentially lead to the ability to manipulate time and create paradoxes.

5. How does the existence of time traveling electrons impact our daily lives?

As there is no evidence to suggest that time traveling electrons exist, their existence has no impact on our daily lives. However, further research into the concept could potentially lead to new discoveries and advancements in science and technology.

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