I Virtual Photons: The Long-Distance Repulsion of Electrons

[Green dwarf]

My understanding is that the repulsion between two electrons is mediated by the exchange of virtual photons – virtual meaning not lasting long enough to be detected. But suppose one of the electrons is in the sun and the other on Earth. There should still be a repulsion because the electromagnetic interaction has infinite range. Do the virtual photons last 8 minutes? If a photographic plate is placed between the two electrons, will the virtual photons be absorbed and recorded? Or, will they still reach the other electron to complete the exchange?

 

[weirdoguy]

virtual meaning not lasting long enough to be detected.

Virtual meaning non existent - well, only on a paper of those who do the calculations. I suggest reading those articles:
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/physics-virtual-particles/
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/misconceptions-virtual-particles/

 

[DrClaude]

Virtual particles are not real. A virtual photon cannot be absorbed or recorded, because it is not real.

Please see:
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/physics-virtual-particles/
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/misconceptions-virtual-particles/