Why Does E=mc^2 Imply Creation of Particles?

In summary, many references on quantum field theory explain the need for a field theory instead of a single particle theory. One way they argue this is through the use of the E=mc^2 formula, which implies the creation of particle-antiparticle pairs. However, this formula alone does not prove the possibility of particle creation. It simply shows that mass has energy and suggests that particles can be obtained if this energy is available. It was not initially considered that particle creation was possible, as the focus was on obtaining energy from mass. But experiments later showed the conversion of matter and energy in both directions, making it evident that E=mc^2 can imply particle creation. Although E=mc^2 can lead to the Dirac equation
  • #1
sliorde
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Many references of quantum field theory begin with an explanation of the necessity of a field theory as opposed to a single particle theory. Sometimes they use the argument that E=mc^2 implies particle creation.
For example, in Peskin "the Einstein relation E=mc^2 allows for the creation of particle-antiparticle pairs" (page 13).

How does Einstein's relation imply the possibility of creation of particles? Seems to me that you might as well say that the kinetic energy formula Ek=(1/2)mv^2 implies creation of particles.
 
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  • #2
E=mc^2 (or, better, ##E^2=(mc^2)^2 + (pc)^2##) alone does not show that particle creation is possible. It just shows that mass has a corresponding energy, and indicates that it might be possible to get particles if you have that energy available.
 
  • #3
I don't think that at first that was considered. Attention focussed on the possibility of obtaining energy from mass. (Energy from KE is a no-brainer)

Of course, experiments rapidly threw up the fact of matter/energy conversion both ways.
Then it becomes somewhat obvious with hindsight that E= etc. implies creation.
 
  • #4
It's a really sloppy statement. E²=p²c²+(mc²)² is where you get Dirac equation from, but even that merely predicts existence of anti-particles. Not of creation/annihilation process. You can only get pair creation/annihilation once you consider field theory. The motivation for that has to come from experiment.

I'm not really sure why Peskin and Shroeder put it that way. I thought there might be some context loss, but no, that's all they say on the matter.
 

Related to Why Does E=mc^2 Imply Creation of Particles?

1. What is the significance of E=mc^2 in the creation of particles?

The equation E=mc^2, also known as the mass-energy equivalence equation, explains the relationship between energy and mass. It states that mass can be converted into energy and vice versa. In particle physics, this equation helps us understand the creation of particles from energy.

2. How does E=mc^2 imply the creation of particles?

According to the equation, an amount of energy (E) is equivalent to a certain amount of mass (m) multiplied by the speed of light squared (c^2). This means that a large amount of energy can be converted into a small amount of mass, which can then form particles. In particle accelerators, high-energy collisions can produce new particles from the conversion of energy.

3. Does E=mc^2 only apply to the creation of particles in particle accelerators?

No, the equation applies to all forms of matter and energy. It explains the fundamental relationship between the two and is a fundamental principle in understanding the behavior of particles in the universe. Even in everyday life, this equation is evident in nuclear reactions, such as those that power the sun.

4. Can E=mc^2 be used to create particles from nothing?

No, E=mc^2 does not imply the creation of particles from nothing. It simply explains the conversion of energy into mass. In order to create particles, there must be a source of energy, such as in particle accelerators or natural processes like nuclear reactions.

5. How does E=mc^2 relate to the Big Bang theory?

The Big Bang theory states that the universe began as a singularity, a point of infinite density and energy. As the universe expanded, this energy cooled down and turned into particles, eventually forming the matter we see today. E=mc^2 helps us understand this process by explaining the conversion of energy into mass and the creation of particles in the early stages of the universe.

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