Interpretational difficulties in quantum field theory

P. Krekora, Q. Su, and R. Grobe
Phys. Rev. A 73, 022114 – Published 23 February 2006

Abstract

Based on space-time-resolved solutions to relativistic quantum field theory we illustrate interpretational difficulties in associating field-theoretical quantities with properties of particles. These difficulties are related to the fact that the definition of the spatial probability density of particles depends on the choice of the Hilbert subspace on which the field operator is projected. We illustrate these problems by analyzing pair-production probabilities and spatial densities for the electron-positron dynamics associated with a spatially localized subcritical potential that is turned on and off in time.

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  • Received 8 August 2005

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.73.022114

©2006 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

P. Krekora, Q. Su, and R. Grobe

  • Intense Laser Physics Theory Unit and Department of Physics, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois 61790-4560, USA

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Vol. 73, Iss. 2 — February 2006

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