Endless Facts, One Snippet at a Time
Quantum Field Theory: The Physics of Everything
- Quantum Field Theory (QFT) is the framework that combines quantum mechanics with special relativity.
- It describes particles not as tiny objects but as excitations of invisible fields.
- Every fundamental particle—like electrons and quarks—has its own quantum field.
- The photon is a ripple in the electromagnetic field, carrying light and energy.
- QFT explains how particles interact through force-carrying fields like the strong and weak nuclear forces.
- It forms the foundation of the Standard Model, our best description of fundamental physics.
- The discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012 confirmed the Higgs field, which gives particles mass.
- Virtual particles constantly pop in and out of existence within these fields.
- QFT unifies wave-particle duality, showing reality as a dynamic “sea” of fields.
- Despite its success, QFT still struggles to merge smoothly with gravity in a single theory.