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From: spencert%rpi.csnet@csnet-relay.arpa
Newsgroups: net.physics
Subject: Fine structure constant.
Message-ID: <498@sri-arpa.ARPA>
Date: Wed, 14-Aug-85 15:14:58 EDT
Article-I.D.: sri-arpa.498
Posted: Wed Aug 14 15:14:58 1985
Date-Received: Sun, 18-Aug-85 03:53:55 EDT
Lines: 29

From:  Thomas Spencer* 

	I am given to understand that Qunatum Electrodynamics (QED) 
makes a prediction about the value of the fine structure constant.
Furthermore, it is difficult but possible to derive a numerical for
this constant.  This derivation supposedly  has been done to some extent 
and the theoretical value has been determined to about 10 significant figures.
The fine structure constant can be measured from Hydrogen spectra to about
the same accuracy and the theoretical and measured values agree.  

	Question: Is this correct ?  If so, could someone explain
approximately how one calculates the fine structure constant.  (I am
looking for an explanition of the level of:

Solve P.D.E. #1
  

				Stuff #1.

Solve P.D.E. #2

				Stuff #2.

Integrate the difference in solutions over everywhere.  Or something like
that )

		Thank you.
			
		Tom Spencer