Why do high energies correspond to small distances

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In summary, in quantum field theory, probing something at high energies is equivalent to probing it at small distances. Most of the time, momentum space is used in calculations, so distances and locations are not considered. The only time distances are used is in lattice theory and with Wilson loops, which suggest that stretching a pair of quarks requires greater energy. However, experimentalists typically measure everything in energy rather than distance. This is related to the Compton wavelength, which is shorter for higher energies.
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RedX
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Where in quantum field theory does it say that probing something at high energies is equivalent to probing it at small distances? Most of the time things are done in momentum space (such as the Feynman rules) so we have no clue about distances and location.

The only time I even remember using distances in field theory is with lattice theory and Wilson loops, and the Wilson loop seemed to say the opposite, that to stretch a pair of quarks great distances requires great energy. For any attractive force, wouldn't it be that larger energies correspond to larger distance?

Experimentalists measure everything in energy right, and not distance?
 
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It is simply related to the Compton wavelength: http://www3.tsl.uu.se/thep/courses/QM/scattering-overview.pdf
 
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malawi_glenn said:
It is simply related to the Compton wavelength: http://www3.tsl.uu.se/thep/courses/QM/scattering-overview.pdf

You wanted to say "with the De Broglie wavelength"? It is shorter for higher energies.

Bob.
 
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FAQ: Why do high energies correspond to small distances

Why is there a relationship between high energies and small distances?

The relationship between high energies and small distances is a fundamental principle in physics known as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. This principle states that the more precisely we know the momentum of a particle, the less we know about its position, and vice versa. As energy increases, the momentum of a particle also increases, making its position less certain. Therefore, in order to observe particles at high energies, they must be confined to smaller and smaller distances.

How are high energies and small distances related to the concept of spacetime?

In the theory of relativity, spacetime is a four-dimensional concept that combines space and time. According to this theory, objects with high energies can cause a curvature in spacetime, which in turn affects their motion. As energy increases, the curvature of spacetime becomes more pronounced, leading to a smaller distance between objects.

What is the role of quantum mechanics in understanding the relationship between high energies and small distances?

Quantum mechanics, the branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels, plays a crucial role in understanding the relationship between high energies and small distances. This is because at these levels, particles behave in a probabilistic manner, and their properties cannot be precisely determined. Therefore, in order to study particles at high energies, we must use the principles and equations of quantum mechanics.

How does the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) help us study the relationship between high energies and small distances?

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is the world's largest and most powerful particle accelerator, designed to collide particles at incredibly high energies. By colliding particles at such high energies, scientists are able to recreate the conditions of the early universe and study the fundamental building blocks of matter at extremely small distances. This helps us gain a better understanding of the relationship between high energies and small distances.

Are there any practical applications of understanding the relationship between high energies and small distances?

Yes, there are many practical applications of understanding the relationship between high energies and small distances. For example, this knowledge has helped us develop technologies such as MRI machines, which use strong magnetic fields to produce high energy particles that can be used for medical imaging. Additionally, understanding the behavior of particles at high energies has also led to advancements in fields such as nuclear energy and materials science.

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