Discrete Energy States in Quantum Fields

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In quantum fields, there exist a discrete set of higher energy states and orbitals despite the underlying continuous wave nature. Electrons tend to occupy lower energy states with definite shapes. Similar to plucking a violin string, quantum fields have vibrations with definite energies forming a discrete set. These discrete energy levels of quantum fields exhibit particle-like properties, including a minimum energy state interpreted as empty space and one quantum worth of energy resembling a single particle state.

Welcome to the May 2024 Ask Me Anything episode of Mindscape! These monthly excursions are funded by Patreon supporters (who are also the ones asking the questions). We take questions asked by Patreons, whittle them down to a more manageable number -- based primarily on whether I have anything interesting to say about them, not whether the questions themselves are good -- and sometimes group them together if they are about a similar topic. Enjoy!

Blog post with questions and transcript: https://www.preposterousuniverse.com/podcast/2024/05/06/ama-may-2024/

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