Episode 158: Quantum Electodynamics Part 1

About this episode

This episode explores the physics and mathematics of quantum electrodynamics, focusing on the interaction of light and matter.

A detailed look into the physics and mathematics of quantum electrodynamics, the theory of how light and matter interact. We discuss the generalisation of the Schrodinger equation to the Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations, and howw these describe the propogation of light and fermions respectively. We then consider the process of computing transition probabilities between quantum states, including the S matrix and perturbation theory, and Wick's theorem. Recommended pre-listening is Episode 85: Introduction to Quantum Field Theory. If you enjoyed the podcast please consider supporting the show by making a PayPal donation or becoming a Patreon supporter. https://www.patreon.com/jamesfodor https://www.paypal.me/ScienceofEverything

People in this episode

Host: James Fodor

Topics covered

• quantum electrodynamics
• Schrodinger equation
• Klein-Gordon equation
• Dirac equation
• transition probabilities
• S matrix
• perturbation theory

Keywords

• quantum electrodynamics
• light and matter
• Schrodinger equation
• Klein-Gordon equation
• Dirac equation
• transition probabilities
• S matrix
• perturbation theory
• Wick's theorem

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: PayPal, Patreon

Books & works: Episode 85: Introduction to Quantum Field Theory

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