Quantum Field Theory
The fine-structure constant, denoted as $$rac{e^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0\hbar c}$$, is a dimensionless fundamental physical constant that characterizes the strength of electromagnetic interactions between charged particles. This constant is essential for understanding atomic structure, as it influences the splitting of spectral lines and plays a crucial role in phenomena like electron self-energy and vacuum polarization. Additionally, its value is pivotal in renormalization processes and provides insights into the quantum Hall effect and the behavior of gauge theories.
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