Virtual particles in Feynman diagrams

In summary, virtual particles are mathematical constructs used in Feynman diagrams to represent the exchange of energy and momentum between particles. They cannot be observed or detected and behave differently from real particles. They play a crucial role in understanding particle interactions and are not considered to be physical entities in the physical world.
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In the first diagram above, if I understand it correctly, the photon turns into an electron positron pair and then back again to a photon. However, what exactly is happening in the second diagram at the bottom left hand corner? Is the electron being converted to an electron photon pair?
 

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To the extent that a Feynman diagram shows something "happening" (which is to say, not much at all) the electron is emitting and then reabsorbing a photon.
 
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1. What are virtual particles in Feynman diagrams?

Virtual particles are mathematical constructs used in Feynman diagrams to represent the exchange of energy and momentum between particles. They are not actual particles, but rather a way to visualize and calculate interactions between particles.

2. Can virtual particles be observed or detected?

No, virtual particles cannot be observed or detected directly. They are a mathematical tool used in calculations and do not have physical properties like real particles do.

3. How are virtual particles different from real particles?

Virtual particles and real particles behave differently and have different properties. Virtual particles are short-lived and do not follow the laws of conservation of energy and momentum, whereas real particles do. Virtual particles also do not have a definite mass or charge, unlike real particles.

4. What is the significance of virtual particles in Feynman diagrams?

Virtual particles play a crucial role in understanding and predicting the behavior of particles in quantum field theory. They are necessary for calculating the probability of particle interactions and the creation of new particles.

5. Are virtual particles a real part of the physical world?

Virtual particles are a theoretical concept used in mathematical calculations to explain the behavior of particles. They are not considered to be physical entities in the same way that real particles are.

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