Virtual particle

In the description of the interaction between elementary particles in quantum field theory, a virtual particle is a temporary elementary particle, used to describe an intermediate stage in the interaction. A virtual particle is never the end result of such a process. Using the language of Feynman diagrams, a virtual particle is associated with the internal lines of the diagrams, the so-called propagators. These virtual particles are responsible for the interactions of the external particles (external legs of the diagram). For example, the electromagnetic interaction occurs due to the exchange of virtual photons.

Related Topics:
Elementary particles - Quantum field theory - Feynman diagram - Propagator - Electromagnetic interaction - Photon

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