![]() However, when scientists try to include the contributions of a component of the quantum foam called quarks, things get far more challenging. For instance, when the ephemeral particles are electrons and photons, the calculations are reasonably straightforward. Researchers know how to handle many aspects of the quantum foam, but not all. These ephemeral particles can cause small changes in calculations. Instead, it’s a hectic place, with subatomic particles appearing and disappearing. It says that at the smallest scales, empty space isn’t empty. This involves a fascinating property of space called the quantum foam. Quantum foam is a surprising consequence of the laws of nature. While all aspects of the calculation are challenging, there is one that is especially difficult. This requires scientists to make approximations, and to make decisions on which effects to include in the calculations and which to omit. The key issue is that the equations governing both the mass of the W boson and the magnetic properties of the muon are extremely difficult and impossible to solve exactly. That’s what the recent paper in Nature Communications explored. So, if the measurement and prediction have been done properly, this leaves the possibility that the theory needs revision and improvement. For the moment, there is no reason to suspect any errors. ![]() In addition, both predictions and measurements have undergone extensive cross-checking and review. And the third option is that both measurement and calculation were done correctly, but the underlying theory is missing something.Īny of the three possibilities could be the explanation, and it’s worth noting that the experimental physicists who made the measurement and the theoretical physicists who did the calculations are established and well-regarded members of the scientific community. Second, the calculation could be done improperly. ![]() In frontier research, when a prediction and measurement disagree there are a few possible explanations. ![]()
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