Why do they only consider S-matrix in QFT?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the significance of the S-matrix in Quantum Field Theory (QFT), particularly its role in scattering experiments. Participants highlight that scattering cross-sections are prioritized in QFT due to their relevance in experimental physics. Additionally, other calculations such as linewidths, lifetimes, anomalous magnetic moments, and the Lamb shift are acknowledged as important but secondary to scattering processes. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of the S-matrix for representing physical phenomena in QFT.

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ndung200790
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Please teach me this:
Why do they only consider S-matrix(or Green functions) in Quantum Field Theory?How about other physics observations as considering in normal Quantum Mechanics,e.g angular momentum...of particles?If we consider the other physical observations,how could we represent them in language of Quantum Field Theory?
Thank you very much in advance.
 
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ndung, Scattering cross-sections are a main focus of calculations in quantum field theory because most experiments are scattering experiments. There are plenty of other calculations too which are not related to scattering: linewidths and lifetimes, anomalous magnetic moment, Lamb shift, etc
 

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