Quantum Theory Seminar
Pair production in strong electric fields: From temporal and spatial scales to backreaction., Matthias Diez (Graz U)
by
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Europe/Berlin
Description
Strong electromagnetic fields can destabilize the quantum vacuum and produce electron–positron pairs through the Sauter–Schwinger effect. In this presentation I will explore pair production in time-dependent and spatially inhomogeneous fields using the Dirac–Heisenberg–Wigner formalism and quantum kinetic theory. Particular attention is paid to the interpretation of particle numbers at intermediate times and the emergence of characteristic temporal and spatial scales. Finally, in the presentation I discuss how the induced current modifies the electromagnetic field through backreaction, including current renormalization and the emergence of plasma oscillations.