Quantum field theory describes particle interactions from "summary" of The Quantum Universe by Brian Cox,Jeff Forshaw
Quantum field theory is a framework that allows us to understand and describe the interactions between particles. It is considered one of the most successful theories in physics, encompassing both quantum mechanics and special relativity. In this theory, particles are not seen as individual entities but rather as excitations of underlying fields that permeate all of space. These fields are responsible for mediating the forces between particles, such as the electromagnetic force or the weak nuclear force. The key idea in quantum field theory is that particles can interact by exchanging virtual particles, which are disturbances in the underlying fields. For example, when two electrons repel each other, they do so by exchanging virtual photons, which are the carriers of the electromagnetic force. This exchange of virtual particles is what gives rise to the forces between particles. In a sense, particles are constantly interacting with each other by exchanging virtual particles, even when they are not in direct contact. One of the most remarkable predictions of quantum field theory is the existence of the Higgs boson, which was discovered at the Large Hadron Collider in 2012. The Higgs boson is responsible for giving mass to other particles, and its discovery confirmed the validity of the theory. Without the Higgs boson, particles would be massless and the universe as we know it would not exist.- Quantum field theory provides a powerful framework for understanding the fundamental interactions between particles. By treating particles as excitations of underlying fields and by incorporating the principles of quantum mechanics and special relativity, this theory has been able to successfully describe and predict a wide range of phenomena in the subatomic world. It represents a cornerstone of modern theoretical physics and continues to be a vibrant area of research and discovery.
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