Understanding the Differences: Virtual vs Real Photons in Electromagnetic Forces

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SUMMARY

This discussion clarifies the distinction between virtual and real photons in the context of electromagnetic forces. Virtual photons are responsible for mediating electric and magnetic forces, which have infinite ranges, while real photons represent electromagnetic radiation, such as light. The confusion arises from the dual nature of photons, where they act as virtual particles in fields but become real when interacting to produce observable phenomena like light. This topic is frequently addressed in physics forums, emphasizing the need for deeper understanding of quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of Feynman diagrams
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic theory
  • Familiarity with particle physics terminology
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  • Explore the concept of virtual particles in quantum field theory
  • Study the role of photons in electromagnetic interactions
  • Investigate the implications of virtual photons in quantum electrodynamics (QED)
  • Learn about the experimental evidence supporting the existence of virtual particles
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Students of physics, researchers in quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of electromagnetic forces and particle interactions.

nomadreid
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Virtual particles confuse me a bit, because although the ones which exist for such short times in Feynman diagrams seem straightforward, the electric and magnetic forces, whose ranges are infinite, are transported via virtual particles, whereas a real photon is just electromagnetic radiation. So, how does one justify that the photons associated with electric and magnetic forces are virtual when these fields are alone but are real when they combine to give light?
 
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This question comes up a lot here at PF. I would suggest you to search the quantum forum for virtual particles or virtual photons.
 

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