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Ranku
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Are virtual particles of the false vacuum during inflation indistinguishable from virtual particles of the true vacuum of the present universe?
Virtual Particles: Inflation vs Present Universe
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In summary, vacuum fluctuations behave differently during inflation due to the exponentially expanding space. Virtual particles, although considered fiction, can be discussed in relation to vacuum fluctuations during inflation. The difference between false and true vacuum lies in the energy state, with the universe's state being unknown.
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bapowell
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Vacuum fluctuations are the same animal in inflating and non-inflating space times. Their dynamics, however, are very different during inflation on account of exponentially expanding space.
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Ranku
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Thank you for your reply. Can virtual particles be considered to have inertial mass just like real particles?
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strangerep
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(All) virtual particles are fiction. (See various threads in the quantum forum, and also some recent insights.)
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bapowell
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Yes, but it does make sense to talk about vacuum fluctuations, particularly during inflation. I am trying to steer the OP in that direction.strangerep said:
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Ssnow
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Hi, regarding
and
somebody know the difference? If yes is the answer, I am curious to know ...
Ranku said:
and
Ranku said:
somebody know the difference? If yes is the answer, I am curious to know ...
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newjerseyrunner
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A false vacuum is the local minimum, but not lowest energy state. A true vacuum is the lowest energy state, nobody knows if the universe is a true or false vacuum. This graph may help you.
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Ssnow
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Thanks @newjerseyrunner, yes now is clear!
FAQ: Virtual Particles: Inflation vs Present Universe
1. What are virtual particles?
Virtual particles are subatomic particles that are constantly popping in and out of existence in the quantum vacuum. They are not directly observable, but their effects can be measured.
2. What is the difference between inflation and the present universe?
Inflation is a rapid expansion of the universe that is theorized to have occurred in the first fraction of a second after the Big Bang. The present universe refers to the current state of the universe, which is expanding at a much slower rate.
3. How do virtual particles relate to inflation and the present universe?
Virtual particles play a role in both inflation and the present universe. Inflation is thought to have been caused by the rapid production of virtual particles, while in the present universe, virtual particles contribute to the energy density of the vacuum, which affects the expansion rate of the universe.
4. Are virtual particles real?
While virtual particles are not directly observable, they are considered to be real in the sense that they have measurable effects and are a fundamental part of quantum field theory. They are different from regular particles in that they do not have a stable existence.
5. Can virtual particles become real particles?
Virtual particles can become real particles under certain conditions, such as in high-energy collisions or in the presence of strong fields. However, they typically exist for a very short time before annihilating with their antiparticle.