Quantum field theory and classical optics: determining the fine structure constant

[摘要] The properties of the vacuum are described by quantum physics including the response to external fields such as electromagnetic radiation. Of the two parameters that govern the details of the electromagnetic field dynamics in vacuum, one is fixed by the requirement of Lorentz invariance . The other one, and its relation to the quantum vacuum, is discussed in this contribution. Deriving 0from the properties of the quantum vacuum implies the derivation of the fine structure constant.

[发布机构] Department Physik, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstr. 7 B2, Erlangen; 91058, Germany^1;Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Staudtstr. 2, Erlangen; 91058, Germany^2;Department of Physics, University of Ottawa, 25 Tempelton Street, Ottawa; ON; K1N 6N5, Canada^3;Department of Physics, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay; ON; P7B 5E1, Canada^4;Departamento de Óptica, Facultad de Física, Universidad Complutense, Madrid; 28040, Spain^5

[关键词] Classical optics;External fields;Fine structure constants;Lorentz invariance;Quantum field theory;Quantum physics;Quantum vacuum;Two parameter