Degrees of freedom of elementary particles

In summary, the EM wave and photon have two degrees of freedom: polarization directions and spin states. However, unlike macroscopic objects which can move in all directions in space, the degrees of freedom of elementary particles are limited to their spins and charges, which are considered intrinsic properties. This is due to the definition of degrees of freedom, which excludes direction or speed of motion as intrinsic properties.
  • #1
Lapidus
344
12
The EM wave and the photon have two degrees of freedom. Their polarization directions and spin states, respectively.

But they move in space, too. I mean light has the freedom to go in all directions in space.

Like a macroscopic ball in 3-D space, which can go all three directions, if there are no constrains.

So why are the degrees of freedom of elementary particle only their spins and charges (e.g. for quarks), i.e. internal properties, and not their freedom to move in space?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
It has to do with definition. Degrees of freedom refer to intrinsic properties. Direction or speed of motion are not intrinsic.
 
  • Like
Likes Lapidus

FAQ: Degrees of freedom of elementary particles

What are degrees of freedom of elementary particles?

The degrees of freedom of elementary particles refer to the number of independent parameters or variables needed to describe the state of the particle. This includes factors such as position, momentum, spin, and polarization.

How many degrees of freedom do elementary particles have?

The number of degrees of freedom of elementary particles varies depending on the particle. For example, photons have two degrees of freedom (polarization), while electrons have four degrees of freedom (position, momentum, and spin).

Why is understanding degrees of freedom important in particle physics?

Understanding degrees of freedom is important in particle physics because it allows us to accurately describe and predict the behavior of particles. It also helps us understand the underlying laws and principles of the universe.

Can the degrees of freedom of elementary particles change?

Yes, the degrees of freedom of elementary particles can change under certain conditions, such as interactions with other particles or in extreme environments like high temperatures or strong magnetic fields.

How do degrees of freedom relate to the concept of entropy?

In thermodynamics, entropy is a measure of the number of possible microstates that a system can have. The degrees of freedom of particles contribute to the total number of microstates, and therefore, play a role in the calculation of entropy.

Similar threads

Degrees of freedom of quantum fields and elementary particles
Replies
1
Views
5K
Gauge fields - how many physical degrees of freedom?
Replies
6
Views
7K
Degrees of freedom in the SM / MSSM?
Replies
9
Views
9K
Degrees of freedom of a water molecule
Replies
8
Views
4K
I What happened to the spatial degrees of freedom for the second particle?
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Is baryon antisymmetry always true?
Replies
4
Views
1K
Good coordinates and degrees of freedom
Replies
2
Views
3K
I Energy and states of a particle in a box.
Replies
3
Views
1K
I Do identical particles really exist?
Replies
13
Views
2K
I Does intrinsic (e.g., spin) imply elementary (irreducible)?
Replies
9
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top