Ampere's law with quantum mechanics

This magnetic force is necessary to maintain consistency with special relativity and the transformation of forces between inertial frames. However, the reason for the existence of the electric force and the coupling between charged particles and photons remains a mystery in physics. For further information, researching "Quantum electrodynamics" may provide more insight into this topic.
  • #1
exmarine
241
11
Ampere’s law – parallel electrical currents attract – has been known for a long time. How is that understood or explained in quantum mechanics?
 
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  • #2
The attractive force between parallel currents is the magnetic force. The magnetic force exists so that the electric force comports with special relativity: if the electric force existed on its own, then the force on a particle wouldn't transform right from one inertial frame to the other. So now the question becomes why does the electric force exist? The electric force is due to the exchange of photons between charged particles.

P.S. We can go further down the rabbit hole. Why is there a coupling between charged particles and photons in the first place? At some point in physics it's safer to say "Beats me."
 
  • #3
If you want to really get into this you might Google "Quantum electrodynamics."
Wiki is the first reference I got there and will give you a bunch of information that might make your head hurt, but working backward and forward from the information there may be enlightening.
DC
 

Related to Ampere's law with quantum mechanics

1. What is Ampere's law with quantum mechanics?

Ampere's law with quantum mechanics is a principle in physics that describes the relationship between an electric current and the magnetic field it produces. It combines the classical Ampere's law, which states that a current-carrying wire produces a circular magnetic field around it, with quantum mechanics, which describes the behavior of particles at the subatomic level.

2. How does Ampere's law with quantum mechanics differ from classical Ampere's law?

Classical Ampere's law only applies to macroscopic, or large-scale, systems, while Ampere's law with quantum mechanics can be used to describe the behavior of particles at the subatomic level. Additionally, classical Ampere's law does not take into account the quantized nature of energy and matter, whereas Ampere's law with quantum mechanics does.

3. What is the importance of Ampere's law with quantum mechanics?

Ampere's law with quantum mechanics is important because it helps us understand the behavior of matter and energy at the subatomic level. It has also been used to develop technologies such as MRI machines and particle accelerators, and has led to advancements in fields such as quantum computing and telecommunications.

4. How is Ampere's law with quantum mechanics used in practical applications?

Ampere's law with quantum mechanics is used in a variety of practical applications, such as in the development of MRI machines, which use magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the inside of the human body. It is also used in particle accelerators, which use electromagnetic fields to accelerate particles to high speeds for scientific research.

5. Are there any limitations to Ampere's law with quantum mechanics?

Like any scientific theory, Ampere's law with quantum mechanics has its limitations. It is a simplified model that does not take into account all possible factors and may not accurately describe certain phenomena, such as the behavior of particles in extreme conditions. It is also constantly being refined and expanded upon as our understanding of quantum mechanics continues to evolve.

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