What does it mean when we say something exists in physics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the confusion surrounding the existence of concepts in physics, such as forces, virtual particles, and wavefunctions. Participants question whether inquiries about the reality of these entities are ill-defined or simply about measurement methods. The conversation acknowledges that these questions lean more towards philosophy rather than scientific discourse. Ultimately, the thread concludes with a reminder that philosophical discussions are not the focus of the forum. The topic highlights the intersection of physics and philosophy, raising important questions about the nature of existence in scientific contexts.
Shing Ernst
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I am getting more and more confused when people say or ask if something exists? (Say force, virtual particles, or even spin)

Such as, "is wavefunction real?" "Are virtual particles real?" "Are force real?"

Are those types of questions usually ill-defined or not well-posed? Or they are just asking "How we measure them directly/indirectly?"

Sorry for being philosophical on a science website, but it is driving me crazy.
 
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As you note, your questions are more philosophical than science-oriented. We don't discuss philosophy at this site.

Thread closed.
 

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