The range of elementary interactions: a criticism of the standard classroom approach

TL;DR

This paper critiques the common classroom explanation of the limited range of elementary interactions, arguing that the usual heuristic based on the uncertainty principle is invalid and may cause misconceptions.

Contribution

It challenges the standard heuristic derivation of interaction ranges and questions its pedagogical effectiveness in physics education.

Findings

The heuristic derivation is not universally valid.

Using the uncertainty principle as proof can lead to misconceptions.

The paper advocates for a more accurate teaching approach.

Abstract

The finite scope of the some elementary interactions is usually presented to Physics students as a natural consequence of the time-energy uncertainty relation. It is demonstrated that this heuristic derivation is not a priori valid. Accordingly, it is argued the doubtful usefulness of this "proof" in the classroom, for it may lead to misconceptions.