Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
11:03
An Analog Macroscopic Technique for Studying Molecular Hydrodynamic Processes in Dense Gases and Liquids
Published on: December 4, 2017
9.1K
Quantum field theory of fluids.
Ben Gripaios1, Dave Sutherland1
1Cavendish Laboratory, J. J. Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0HE, United Kingdom.
Physical Review Letters
|March 13, 2015
Summary
This study presents a quantum perfect fluid as a low-energy effective field theory, distinct from classical fluids and quantum fields. Its noninteracting theory includes quantum free particles, unlike standard quantum field theories.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Field Theory
- Fluid Dynamics
- Statistical Mechanics
Background:
- Quantum field theory typically studies perturbations around free field theories (quantum harmonic oscillators).
- The quantum theory of fluids has a
- freer
- noninteracting theory containing quantum free particles (vortex modes).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the formulation of a quantum perfect fluid as a low-energy effective field theory.
- To explore the quantum behavior of perfect fluids and compare it to classical fluids and quantum fields.
Main Methods:
- Computation of correlation functions at tree and loop levels.
- Analysis of noninteracting theories in quantum fluid dynamics.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a quantum perfect fluid can be consistently formulated as a low-energy effective field theory.
- The noninteracting theory of quantum fluids includes an infinite collection of quantum-mechanical free particles (vortex modes).
Conclusions:
- A quantum perfect fluid can be described by a low-energy effective field theory.
- The quantum behavior of perfect fluids is expected to differ significantly from classical fluids and quantum fields.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Dimensionless Groups in Fluid Mechanics
1000
Dimensionless groups in fluid mechanics provide simplified ratios that help analyze fluid behavior without relying on specific units. The Reynolds number (Re), which represents the ratio of inertial to viscous forces, distinguishes between laminar and turbulent flows, making it essential in the design of pipelines and aerodynamic surfaces. The Froude number (Fr), the ratio of inertial to gravitational forces, is particularly useful in predicting wave formation and hydraulic jumps in...
1000
01:20Characteristics of Fluids
8.9K
When a force is applied parallel to the top surface of a solid, it resists the applied force due to the internal frictional forces between the layers of the solid known as shearing resistance. However, when the force is removed, the shearing forces restore the original shape of the solid. Other deformation forces also cause temporary changes in shape if the forces are not beyond a threshold magnitude. Solids tend to retain their shape, making the study of their rest and motion easier. Beyond...
8.9K
01:31Characteristics of Fluids
1.3K
Fluids differ from solids primarily in their molecular structure and stress response. Solids have tightly packed molecules with strong intermolecular forces, maintaining their shape and resisting deformation. In contrast, fluids have molecules spaced farther apart with weaker forces, allowing them to flow and deform easily.
Fluids, which include both liquids and gases, are substances that deform continuously under shearing stress. For example, water and oil are liquids with molecules that can...
Fluids, which include both liquids and gases, are substances that deform continuously under shearing stress. For example, water and oil are liquids with molecules that can...
1.3K
01:13Basic Equation for Pressure Field
695
The basic equation for a pressure field in fluid mechanics captures the balance of forces within any segment of fluid, providing a foundational understanding of how pressure changes within fluids under various forces. Generally, two main types of forces act on any part of a fluid: surface forces and body forces. Surface forces arise from pressure differences across points within the fluid, which result in net forces that can vary depending on the local pressure gradient. Body forces, on the...
695
01:17Accelerating Fluids
2.5K
When a fluid is in constant acceleration, the pressure and buoyant force equations are modified. Suppose a beaker is placed in an elevator accelerating upward with a constant acceleration, a. In the beaker, assume there is a thin cylinder of height h with an infinitesimal cross-sectional area, ΔS.
The motion of the liquid within this infinitesimal cylinder is considered to obtain the pressure difference. Three vertical forces act on this liquid:
The motion of the liquid within this infinitesimal cylinder is considered to obtain the pressure difference. Three vertical forces act on this liquid:
2.5K
01:14Pressure of Fluids
22.8K
There are many examples of pressure in fluids in everyday life, such as in relation to blood (high or low blood pressure) and in relation to weather (high- and low-pressure weather systems). A given force can have a significantly different effect, depending on the area over which the force is exerted. For instance, a force applied to an area of 1 mm2 has a pressure that is 100 times greater than the same force applied to an area of 1 cm2. That's why a sharp needle is able to poke through...
22.8K