The term "virtual particles" refers to internal lines in Feynman diagrams that do not have free ends, primarily arising in quantum field theory (QFT) and quantum electrodynamics (QED). These particles are not directly observed but are integral to perturbative expansions, where they facilitate interactions between real particles, such as electrons and photons. The concept is often misunderstood, as virtual particles are a linguistic convenience rather than entities with a precise ontological status. The term was first introduced by Paul Dirac, who described them as manifestations of the vacuum's zero-point energy.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the nuances of particle physics and quantum field theory will benefit from this discussion.
actionintegral said:This "feels" right to my tiny brain. I would like to learn how to prove this. Does it follow from the schroedinger equation?