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theoretical physics aspects > field theory > quantum field theory

Preferred term

quantum field theory  

Definition

  • In theoretical physics, quantum field theory (QFT) is a theoretical framework that combines classical field theory, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. QFT is used in particle physics to construct physical models of subatomic particles and in condensed matter physics to construct models of quasiparticles. QFT treats particles as excited states (also called quanta) of their underlying quantum fields, which are more fundamental than the particles. The quantum field of a particle is determined by minimization of the Lagrangian, a functional of fields associated with the particle. Interactions between particles are described by interaction terms in the Lagrangian involving their corresponding quantum fields. Each interaction can be visually represented by Feynman diagrams according to perturbation theory in quantum mechanics. (Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_field_theory)

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Entry terms

  • QFT

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http://data.loterre.fr/ark:/67375/MDL-FD4J4KK1-2

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