Ask a Teacher

Search



what is quantum electrodynamics?
Quantum electrodynamics, commonly referred to as QED, is a quantum field theory of the electromagnetic force. Taking the example of the force between two electrons, the classical theory of electromagnetism would describe it as arising from the electric field produced by each electron at the position of the other. The force can be calculated from Coulomb's law.

The quantum field theory approach visualizes the force between the electrons as an exchange force arising from the exchange of virtual photons.



comments powered by Disqus