Home / Topics / Quantum Mechanics
Quantum field theory intro
Advanced
Particles are excitations of fields.
Combines quantum mechanics and special relativity: particles are excitations of fields that fill space. Allows particle creation and annihilation.
The electron is a ripple in the electron field.
Calculations use perturbation (Feynman diagrams).
In more detail
Quantum field theory describes particles as excitations of underlying fields, combining quantum mechanics with special relativity. It is the framework of the Standard Model.
Real-world uses
- Particle physics predictions are made with quantum field theory.
- Condensed matter physics uses field theory for collective excitations.
- Particle physicists describe all particles as excitations of underlying quantum fields.
Open the interactive lesson, with simulation and quiz →
Frequently asked questions
Are particles fields?
In this framework, particles are quanta of fields.
Is it complete?
It is extremely successful but does not include gravity.
Is an electron a field?
In quantum field theory, the electron is an excitation of the electron field, which is spread throughout space.
Related topics in Quantum Mechanics
Einstein coefficients · Blackbody and Planck's law · Quantum statistics of light · Feynman path integral · Quantum electrodynamics · Casimir effect