Quantum electrodynamics

Definition

Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) is the quantum field theory that describes how light and matter interact. It explains the electromagnetic force between elementary particles using the exchange of virtual photons.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. QED is a fundamental component of the Standard Model of particle physics.
2. The primary interaction in QED occurs via the exchange of virtual photons.
3. Richard Feynman, Julian Schwinger, and Sin-Itiro Tomonaga were awarded the Nobel Prize for their work in developing QED.
4. Feynman diagrams are graphical representations used to visualize interactions in QED.
5. QED accurately predicts phenomena such as the anomalous magnetic dipole moment of the electron and vacuum polarization.

Review Questions

• What does Quantum Electrodynamics describe?
• Who were the key contributors to the development of QED?
• What is exchanged between particles in a QED interaction?

Related terms

Photon: A photon is a quantum of electromagnetic radiation, essentially a particle representing a unit of light or other electromagnetic radiation.

Feynman Diagram: A Feynman Diagram is a graphical representation used in particle physics to illustrate and calculate interactions between particles.

Standard Model: The Standard Model is a theory concerning the electromagnetic, weak, and strong nuclear interactions that govern fundamental particles.