By Magnus Coldwell · Particle Physics

One of the core problems in modern physics is the paradox of wave-particle duality

This persistent analytical challenge has long resisted a fully coherent physical explanation. The apparent dual nature of light and matter, manifesting sometimes as waves and other times as discrete particles, forces physicists to reckon with a fundamental incompleteness in our understanding of how energy and information traverse space. It invites a re-examination, a careful probe into whether our foundational assumptions might harbor an overlooked subtlety. The question then becomes: where might a re-evaluation of such a deep-seated problem begin? It may be that the paradox signals not a profound mystery of reality, but rather a persistent misunderstanding of the very principles we use to describe it.

The author argues that electromagnetic energy transfer is carried by mutual energy flow, which contradicts classical Maxwellian theory that regards self-energy flow as active power

This re-evaluation suggests that the traditional understanding, which attributes active power transfer to the self-energy flow described by the Poynting vector, may require revision. Instead, the assertion is that the actual transmission of energy occurs through a different, less intuitive mechanism. This perspective implies that a fundamental aspect of how we conceptualize electromagnetic phenomena could be miscalibrated, pushing us to consider a distinct framework for understanding energy propagation. Such a shift in perspective, if substantiated, would compel a reconsideration of established electromagnetic theory itself.

The author proposes that electromagnetic energy transfer is carried by mutual energy flow, asserting that self-energy flow, described by the Poynting vector, does not transfer net energy

This framework posits a distinct mechanism: mutual energy flow, which is composed of both retarded and advanced waves. This complex interplay suggests an origin at the source and an eventual annihilation at the absorber, establishing a more direct, almost instantaneous connection between them

The conventional view holds the Poynting vector as the descriptor of active power, yet this new interpretation suggests its role may be more akin to reactive power, indicating energy storage rather than net transfer

The key concept of mutual energy flow was developed in 2017, marking a precise analytical turn.

After 2022, the author re-examined hypothesis (2) and began to question the completeness of Maxwell's theory

This critical re-evaluation centers on the perception that Maxwell's definition of the magnetic field, while foundational, is limited. It holds strictly under quasi-static conditions, but a more comprehensive understanding appears necessary for radiation fields

The limitation identified is that for radiation fields, retarded or advanced magnetic fields cannot be directly expressed as the curl of the vector potential without a specific phase correction

This required 90-degree phase correction becomes the linchpin. By accounting for this perceived omission, the argument is that the self-energy flow, once considered the primary mechanism, is replaced by mutual energy flow as the actual means of energy transfer

The concept of mutual energy flow provides a natural explanation for the wave-particle duality paradox in modern physics

This is because the proposed mechanism, composed of both retarded and advanced waves, inherently possesses both particle-like and wave-like properties, thus offering a unified physical picture

However, this theoretical framework faces a significant challenge: it conflicts directly with mainstream electromagnetic theory

The assertion that self-energy flow is reactive power, rather than active power, contradicts established Maxwellian theory

This means that gaining wide acceptance for such a revision to foundational physics will not be a straightforward process; it demands a careful re-examination from the scientific community.

Recognizing the inherent difficulties in revising such a foundational aspect of physics, the author has adopted a specific strategy to promote understanding and encourage critical discussion. The proposed self-consistent theoretical framework, by its very nature, conflicts with established electromagnetic theory, making wide acceptance a challenge

To navigate this, a dialogical format utilizing AI tools has been introduced

The aim of this “pro-and-con” narrative style is to assist readers in objectively and efficiently grasping both the innovations and the challenges inherent in the theory

This approach, rather than simply presenting a claim, actively fosters an environment for careful thought and objective evaluation, essential for any significant shift in scientific understanding.