Time-energy uncertainty does not create particles

TL;DR

This paper critically examines claims that the time-energy uncertainty principle permits energy violations and particle creation, clarifying the conditions under which these phenomena can occur using perturbation theory.

Contribution

It provides a precise critique of the common assertions linking the time-energy uncertainty to energy violations and particle creation, grounded in perturbation theory analysis.

Findings

Clarifies the conditions for energy violations

Uses perturbation theory to justify claims

Refutes the idea of particle creation from uncertainty

Abstract

In this contribution in honour of Paul Busch, we criticise the claims of many expositions that the time-energy uncertainty principle allows both a violation of energy conservation, and particle creation, provided that this happens for a sufficiently short time. But we agree that there are grains of truth in these claims: which we make precise and justify using perturbation theory.