quantum field theory

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

/ ˈkwɒn təm ˈfild ˌθi ə ri, ˌθɪər i /

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noun Physics.

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

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Origin of quantum field theory

First recorded in 1945–50

Words nearby quantum field theory

quantum computer, quantum cryptography, quantum efficiency, quantum electrodynamics, quantum electronics, quantum field theory, quantum flavourdynamics, quantum gravity, quantum jump, quantum leap, quantum mechanics

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use quantum field theory in a sentence

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.
With Steven Weinberg’s death, physics loses a titan|Tom Siegfried|July 25, 2021|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.
A Video Tour of the Standard Model|Kevin Hartnett|July 16, 2021|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.
The Mystery at the Heart of Physics That Only Math Can Solve|Kevin Hartnett|June 10, 2021|Quanta Magazine
The impetus this time was the self-duality equation, a nonlinear differential equation that arises in quantum field theory.
Isadore Singer Transcended Mathematical Boundaries|Daniel S. Freed|March 4, 2021|Quanta Magazine

Physicists use quantum field theory to calculate essential formulas called scattering amplitudes, some of the most basic calculable features of reality.
What Is a Particle?|Natalie Wolchover|November 12, 2020|Quanta Magazine

British Dictionary definitions for quantum field theory

quantum field theory

noun

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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for quantum field theory

quantum field theory

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. See also quantum chromodynamics quantum electrodynamics.