Understanding Quantum Theory, Quantum Mechanics, and Quantum Fields

Quantum theory, quantum mechanics, and quantum fields are essential theories within physics that provide a framework to understand the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. These theories are interconnected but each offers a distinct perspective on the fundamental nature of reality.

Quantum TheoryQuantum mechanicsQuantum fieldsDeals with the behavior of particles and their interactionsExplores how particles behave and interact with each otherFocuses on the behavior of fields such as electric and magnetic fieldsDetailed explanation of microscopic phenomenaStatistical mechanics applied to quantum behaviorBasic reality in the universe, with fields quantized into spatially extended bundles of energy

Detailed Explanation of Quantum Mechanics

Quantum mechanics is often referred to as the quantitized statistical mechanics. It is a mathematical process to calculate predictions based on the probability of multiple events, specifically a chain of events. The core concept behind this is the wave-particle duality and the probabilistic nature of the subatomic world. This mathematical framework allows for the calculation of outcomes with smaller variance as more events are considered.

A key insight in quantum mechanics comes from Bose's work, which explains the behavior of electrons. According to Bose, electrons occupy a 'cylinder surface' with a factor of 2 for 'polarity'. This concept can be visualized by imagining electron cloud distributions in textbooks, where each electron subshell is a full set at the same distance and the same inclination angle relative to the subshell-nucleus axis. Electrons interact with each other, influenced by both electrostatic repulsion and the weak nuclear interaction, leading to a dynamic equilibrium rather than stable positions.

Quantum Fields

Quantum fields represent the underlying reality of the universe, filled with quantum fields that are quantized. These fields do not exist in a continuous form but rather in discrete, spatially extended bundles of energy. The mathematical procedures that describe these fields form a 'physics math stack', starting from the basic concepts of position, velocity, and acceleration, and progressing through various conversions to probability and density functions.

Quantum Theory and Quantum Field Theory (QFT)

Quantum theory and its extension, quantum field theory (QFT), offer a more comprehensive framework. QFT provides a set of equations and procedures that re-normalize to give specific results for events. Some key aspects include:

Quantum Electrodynamics (QED)Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD)Density Functional Theory (DFT)Studies special interactions, focusing on electrons and photonsFocuses on the strong nuclear force, not visible lightProcedures to skip and consolidate probabilities for long computation timesOffers excellent results but challenges with gravity integrationAdditionally, QFT struggles with incorporating gravity into its accurate within its scope but computationally intensive.

Overall, these theories provide a deep and complex understanding of the subatomic world, each contributing unique insights into the behavior of matter and energy. While quantum mechanics focuses on the probabilistic behavior of particles, quantum fields offer a more holistic view of the universe's underlying reality. QFT, in particular, is a powerful tool for predicting outcomes in specific scenarios, although it still faces challenges, especially in the area of gravity.

Conclusion

Theories of quantum mechanics, quantum fields, and quantum theory are foundational to our understanding of the microscopic world. Through careful study and application, these theories continue to unravel the complexities of the subatomic universe.