How Does Quantum Field Theory Address Zeno's Paradox of Touch?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of spacetime as a continuum and how it relates to the interaction of electrons. It is mentioned that quantum field theory, our current best theory, works with spacetime as a continuum. The conversation also mentions Zeno's paradox and how our understanding has evolved since then. The question of whether electrons need discrete space is raised, but it is stated that this is beyond the scope of the discussion and that further learning from a textbook is necessary. The thread is then closed.
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Philipsmett
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How is the contact, or the interaction of electrons, if, according to Zeno's paradox, the distance between objects is divided into infinite points?
 
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I don't understand what problem you think there is with treating spacetime as a continuum, which is basically what you are referring to. Quantum field theory, which is our best current theory describing the interactions of electrons and other particles, works perfectly fine with spacetime as a continuum.

Zeno didn't understand how a continuum works. We have learned a lot in the 2500 years since.
 
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  • #3
PeterDonis said:
I don't understand what problem you think there is with treating spacetime as a continuum, which is basically what you are referring to. Quantum field theory, which is our best current theory describing the interactions of electrons and other particles, works perfectly fine with spacetime as a continuum.

Zeno didn't understand how a continuum works. We have learned a lot in the 2500 years since.
Do you want to say that electrons come into contact and do not need any discrete space?
 
  • #4
Philipsmett said:
Do you want to say that electrons come into contact and do not need any discrete space?

No, since that's not what quantum field theory says.
 
  • #5
PeterDonis said:
No, since that's not what quantum field theory says.
But what QFT says about that?
 
  • #6
Philipsmett said:
what QFT says about that?

This is way too broad a question; you're basically asking for a course in QFT. That's beyond the scope of a PF discussion. You will need to take some time to learn QFT from a textbook.

Thread closed.
 

FAQ: How Does Quantum Field Theory Address Zeno's Paradox of Touch?

What is Zeno's paradox?

Zeno's paradox is a philosophical thought experiment that questions the concept of motion. It suggests that if an object must always travel half the remaining distance to reach its destination, it can never actually reach its destination because there will always be an infinite number of halfway points to cover.

How does Zeno's paradox relate to touching?

Zeno's paradox can be applied to the concept of touching because, according to the paradox, if an object must always travel half the remaining distance to touch another object, it can never actually touch it because there will always be an infinite number of halfway points to cover.

Can Zeno's paradox be solved?

There is no definitive solution to Zeno's paradox, as it is a philosophical thought experiment. However, many philosophers and scientists have proposed different explanations and resolutions to the paradox, such as the concept of infinite divisibility of space and time.

How does modern science explain Zeno's paradox?

Modern science explains Zeno's paradox through the concept of infinite divisibility of space and time. This means that space and time can be divided into infinitely small units, allowing an object to travel an infinite number of halfway points in a finite amount of time, ultimately allowing it to reach its destination.

What is the significance of Zeno's paradox in modern science?

Zeno's paradox has been a topic of discussion and debate in modern science, particularly in the fields of physics and mathematics. It has led to the development of new theories and concepts, such as the theory of relativity and the concept of infinity, and has challenged our understanding of motion and the nature of reality.

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