Quantum fluctuation/
Introduction
Quantum fluctuation refers to the temporary change in the amount of energy in a point in space, as allowed by the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. This principle, a cornerstone of quantum mechanics, states that the precise position and momentum of a subatomic particle cannot both be known simultaneously. This gives rise to a world that is fuzzy and fluctuating, constantly in flux.
Quantum Field Theory
In Quantum Field Theory (QFT), the universe is considered to be composed of fields corresponding to the fundamental forces of nature. Particles are viewed as excitations of these fields. Quantum fluctuations are the temporary changes in the energy of these fields that occur spontaneously due to quantum mechanics.
Virtual Particles
Quantum fluctuations can result in the creation of pairs of particles, known as virtual particles, that quickly annihilate each other. These particles are not real in the same sense as particles that exist for extended periods of time. Instead, they are a mathematical representation of the probabilities of the interactions that particles can undergo.
Casimir Effect
One of the most intriguing outcomes of quantum fluctuations is the Casimir effect. This effect, predicted by Dutch physicist Hendrik Casimir in 1948, is a small attractive force that acts between two close parallel uncharged conducting plates. It is due to the quantum vacuum fluctuations of the electromagnetic field between the plates.
Quantum Fluctuations and the Big Bang
Quantum fluctuations may have been very important in the origin of the structure of the universe: according to the model of inflation the ones present when inflation began were amplified and formed the seed for all current observed structure.