Calculating Casimir-Force: Zero Point Oscillation vs Virtual Particles

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In summary, the conversation discusses two different ways of calculating the Lamb-shift and Casimir-Force, either through zero point oscillations in quantum field theory or through perturbation by virtual particles in quantum electrodynamics. The question arises about the relationship between zero point oscillations and virtual photons, and whether there is a master in QED who can provide a more satisfying answer. The conversation also delves into the interpretation of vacuum fluctuations in terms of fluctuating photon number and the calculation of the Casimir-Effect and Lamb-shift using different approaches.
  • #1
Kruger
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We can calculate the Lamb-shift in two ways. In order of zero point oscillation in QFT or in order of perturbation done by virtual particles in QED.

We can calculate the Casimir-Force in two ways. In order of zero point oscillation in QFT or in order of perturbation done by virtual particles in QED.

So in what way are zero point oscillations of the electromagnetic field and virtual photons the same. I mean virtual photons as vacuum fluctuations, i.e. vacuum bubbles.
 
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  • #2
Isn't there somebody who know this?
 
  • #3
Come on, somebody must know ist. Any master in QED? :smile:
 
  • #4
Hi Kruger, I'm a bit confused by your post. I assume QFT means quantum field theory, but they aren't two different theories, QED is a particular quantum field theory. In particular, one can interpret vacuum fluctuations in terms of fluctuating photon number. I don't think I understand what you're asking, could you help me out?
 
  • #5
Hi Physics Monkey, may be you can take a look to this thead. A similar question was raised there, but it was formulated with more detail. There are some answers but it seams that none of them were completely satisfying.
 
  • #6
My question is the following.

We can explain the Casimir-Effect in terms of virtual photons and in terms of zero point oscillations. In case of virtual photons I can calculate a pressure between the two parallel plates (outside the plates are "more" photons allowed than between). If I then calculate out of this pressure the Casimir force I get the same result as I would calculate the Casimir-force in order of energy differences coming from zero point oscillations.

We can explain the Lamb-shift in two ways. First: I can say that the electric field of the zero point oscillations perturbe the electrons position in the H-atom. Thus there is a change in the potential energy of the electron.
But I can also make another approach, if I calculate the vacuum polarization, vertex correction, ... between the interacting electron and positron in the H-atom and will get a result.

Do you understand now why I ask this question?
 

FAQ: Calculating Casimir-Force: Zero Point Oscillation vs Virtual Particles

What is the Casimir Force and how is it calculated?

The Casimir Force is a physical phenomenon that describes the attractive force between two uncharged parallel plates in a vacuum. It is calculated by using the quantum mechanical concept of zero point energy, which is the minimum amount of energy that a system can possess even at absolute zero temperature.

What is the difference between Zero Point Oscillation and Virtual Particles in the calculation of Casimir Force?

Zero Point Oscillation refers to the fluctuation of electromagnetic fields in a vacuum, while Virtual Particles are temporary particles that pop in and out of existence due to the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics. Both concepts are used in the calculation of Casimir Force, with zero point energy being the dominant factor.

How does the distance between the plates affect the Casimir Force?

The Casimir Force is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the distance between the plates. This means that as the distance decreases, the force becomes stronger. However, at very small distances, other factors such as surface roughness and thermal effects may become significant and affect the calculation.

Is the Casimir Force a measurable phenomenon?

Yes, the Casimir Force has been experimentally observed and measured in various systems. However, it is a very small force and requires precise experimental techniques to detect.

Can the Casimir Force be manipulated or controlled?

There have been attempts to manipulate the Casimir Force by using different geometries and materials, but it is a fundamental physical phenomenon that cannot be completely controlled. However, understanding and controlling the Casimir Force is important in various fields such as nanotechnology and quantum computing.

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