quantum field theory

[ kwon-tuhm feeld thee-uh-ree, theer-ee ]

noun

, Physics.

1. any field theory that applies the principles and methodology of quantum mechanics. : QFT

quantum field theory

noun

1. physics quantum mechanical theory concerned with elementary particles, which are represented by fields whose normal modes of oscillation are quantized

quantum field theory

1. The application of quantum mechanics to physical systems described by fields, such as electromagnetic fields. Quantum field theory was developed to overcome certain deficiencies in Schrödinger's equation , in particular the fact that it was not consistent with special relativity and was difficult to apply to systems involving many particles or to the creation and destruction of particles.
2. See also quantum chromodynamics

Word History and Origins

Origin of quantum field theory¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Weinberg did important technical work in other realms of physics as well, and wrote several authoritative textbooks on such topics as general relativity and cosmology and quantum field theory.

From Science News

The basic objects of a quantum field theory are quantum fields, which spread across the universe and, through their fluctuations, give rise to the most fundamental phenomena in the physical world.

From Quanta Magazine

It is an umbrella term that encompasses many specific quantum field theories — the way “shape” covers specific examples like the square and the circle.

From Quanta Magazine

The impetus this time was the self-duality equation, a nonlinear differential equation that arises in quantum field theory.

From Quanta Magazine

Physicists use quantum field theory to calculate essential formulas called scattering amplitudes, some of the most basic calculable features of reality.

From Quanta Magazine