What is Quantum electrodynamics: Definition and 53 Discussions
In particle physics, quantum electrodynamics (QED) is the relativistic quantum field theory of electrodynamics. In essence, it describes how light and matter interact and is the first theory where full agreement between quantum mechanics and special relativity is achieved. QED mathematically describes all phenomena involving electrically charged particles interacting by means of exchange of photons and represents the quantum counterpart of classical electromagnetism giving a complete account of matter and light interaction.
In technical terms, QED can be described as a perturbation theory of the electromagnetic quantum vacuum. Richard Feynman called it "the jewel of physics" for its extremely accurate predictions of quantities like the anomalous magnetic moment of the electron and the Lamb shift of the energy levels of hydrogen.
I have a book talking about transient electron-positron pairs appearing and disappearing inside a hydrogen atom which effects the attractive force between the proton and the electron, okay I'm fine with that.
It then goes on to say that the effect is only over short distances because of the...
One question has disturbed me long time, I don't know the distinction between quantum electrodynamics and quantum field theory.
By the way, which quantum field theory or quantum electrodynamics textbook is prefer?
Im wondering what products/technologies that would not have been poosible without the theories of Quantum electrodynamics, not things that these theories appear to explain.