What is quantum field theory?

Quantum field theory is a theoretical framework in physics that merges classical field theory, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. It serves as the foundation for the Standard Model of particle physics to model subatomic particles and is also applied in condensed matter physics. Furthermore, extensions like quantum field theory in curved spacetime allow physicists to study phenomena such as Hawking radiation.

What we know

• Quantum field theory combines classical field theory, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. [1, 2]
• The framework is utilized in particle physics to build models of subatomic particles and in condensed matter physics for quasiparticles. [2]
• The current Standard Model of particle physics relies on quantum field theory. [2]
• Topological quantum field theories compute topological invariants and serve as low-energy effective theories of topologically ordered states in condensed matter physics. [3]

Where to go next

• how it workedHow does the Standard Model use quantum field theory?
• a case in pointWhat is topological quantum field theory?
• the bigger pictureHow is quantum field theory applied in curved spacetime?
• compared withWhat is quantum gravity?
• what caused itHow does special relativity contribute to quantum field theory?
• an unexpected connectionHow are knot theory and quantum field theory related?Topological quantum field theories compute topological invariants, creating deep mathematical links to knot theory and algebraic topology.

Sources

• [1]quantum field theory (Wikidata Q54505) · CC0 1.0
• [2]Quantum field theory · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [3]Topological quantum field theory · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [4]Quantum gravity · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [5]Quantum field theory in curved spacetime · CC BY-SA 4.0

Your path

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