Why do high energies correspond to small distances

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SUMMARY

In quantum field theory, probing at high energies correlates with small distances due to the relationship between energy and wavelength, specifically the De Broglie wavelength. The discussion highlights that while momentum space is commonly utilized, the connection to distances is established through concepts like the Compton wavelength. Contrary to the notion that higher energies correspond to larger distances, the principles of quantum mechanics indicate that increased energy results in shorter wavelengths, thus probing smaller scales. This understanding is crucial for interpreting experimental measurements in particle physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum Field Theory fundamentals
  • De Broglie wavelength concept
  • Compton wavelength relationship
  • Lattice theory and Wilson loops
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Where in quantum field theory does it say that probing something at high energies is equivalent to probing it at small distances? Most of the time things are done in momentum space (such as the Feynman rules) so we have no clue about distances and location.

The only time I even remember using distances in field theory is with lattice theory and Wilson loops, and the Wilson loop seemed to say the opposite, that to stretch a pair of quarks great distances requires great energy. For any attractive force, wouldn't it be that larger energies correspond to larger distance?

Experimentalists measure everything in energy right, and not distance?
 
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It is simply related to the Compton wavelength: http://www3.tsl.uu.se/thep/courses/QM/scattering-overview.pdf
 
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malawi_glenn said:
It is simply related to the Compton wavelength: http://www3.tsl.uu.se/thep/courses/QM/scattering-overview.pdf

You wanted to say "with the De Broglie wavelength"? It is shorter for higher energies.

Bob.
 
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