Student Friendly Introduction to QFT · Problem 2

Scalars: Spin 0 Fields

Physics — QFT · natural-units-and-fine-structure-constant

Problem

The fine structure constant α\alpha in the Gaussian system (cgs with electromagnetism) is e2/4πℏce^2/4\pi\hbar c, dimensionless, and approximately equal to 1/1371/137. Without doing any calculations and without looking at Wholeness Chart 2-1, what are its algebraic expression, its dimensions, and its numerical value in natural units? Why can you find the dimensions and numerical value so easily? Does charge have dimensions in natural units? Without looking up the electron charge in Gaussian units, calculate the charge on the electron in natural units. (Answer: .303.)

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