If I wanted to develop a model of quantum electrodynamics, but instead of an electron field, I quantized the scalar charge density field that is used in Maxwell's Equations, would it be possible? If so, how would this theory differ from quantum electrodynamics and classical electrodynamics?
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
1
-
1$\begingroup$ As a quick disclaimer I do not know the answer nor claim to be an expert in any sense. But modelling the electron with a scalar field would lose it it's spin cf. Klein-Gordon field quantisation. There are also problems with coupling the scalar Klein-Gordon field to the electromagnetic field see here or here, which may also cause problems in your proposed theory. $\endgroup$– CharlieCommented Dec 9, 2020 at 12:08
Add a comment
|
1 Answer
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
In condensed matter physics charge oscillation waves are called plasmons, and quantizing them is not uncommon.
Quantizing continuum-like fields is a rather common procedure in condensed matter physics, resulting in a whole zoo of excitations: plasmons, phonons (lattice vibrations), magnons (quantized magnetic waves), and so on. AN easily accessible introduction is the Haken's "Quantum field theory of solids", while less worked through examples can be found in the Kittel's book.
