Some connections between relativistic classical mechanics, statistical mechanics, and quantum field theory
Edward A. Remler
A gauge-invariant version of the Wigner representation is used to relate relativistic mechanics, statistical mechanics, and quantum field theory in the context of the electrodynamics of scalar particles. A unified formulation of quantum field theory and statistical mechanics is developed which clarifies the physical interpretation of the single-particle Wigner function. A covariant form of Ehrenfest's theorem is derived. Classical electrodynamics is derived from quantum field theory after making a random-phase approximation. The validity of this approximation is discussed.
Physical review. D. Particles, fields, gravitation, and cosmology/Physical review. D. Particles and fields•Dec 15, 1977•14 citations