Strong Electromagnetic Fields in Heavy Ion Collisions

Photons play a pivotal role in both theoretical and applied physics, ranging from elementary particle studies to practical technologies. This article explores how ultra-peripheral collisions of heavy ions act as sources of nearly real photons, enabling the investigation of a wide range of photon-induced processes. By applying the equivalent photon approximation, one can study nuclear structure, QED phenomena, and potential new physics, all in a backgroundsuppressed environment.