Causal signal transmission by quantum fields. Quantum electrodynamics in response representation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel approach to quantum electrodynamics using response transformations, replacing propagators with retarded Green functions, thereby embedding space-time propagation directly into the quantum field framework.

Contribution

It presents a reformulation of quantum electrodynamics that incorporates space-time propagation through response transformations, differing from traditional methods.

Findings

Replaces field propagators with retarded Green functions

Embeds space-time propagation into quantum field theory

Provides a new perspective on electromagnetic interactions

Abstract

Using electromagnetic interaction as an example, response transformations [L.P. and S.S., Ann.Phys. 323, 1963, 1989 (2008), 324, 600 (2009)] are applied to the standard perturbative approach of quantum field theory. This approach is rewritten in the form where the place of field propagators is taken by the retarded Green function of the field. Unlike in conventional quantum-field-theoretical techniques, the concept of space-time propagation of quantized field is built into our techniques.