In this fourth part of the Action-Only Theory (AOT) series, we investigate whether the core observables of quantum electrodynamics (QED) can be fully reconstructed without invoking intrinsic particle properties, abstract gauge fields, or virtual entities. By simply allowing the fundamental quantum of action (h) to propagate through a vacuum medium characterized strictly by its experimentally measured elasticity (permittivity, ε₀) and reluctance (permeability, μ₀), the foundational parameters of matter naturally emerge. The objective of this paper is not to challenge the mathematical predictions of the Standard Model, whose empirical success is well documented. Rather, we explore how a purely operational, fluid-mechanical ontology provides complementary physical insight into why certain dimensionless combinations take their observed values. Key investigations include: - Zitterbewegung, Mass, and Spin: The helical trajectory of action fighting against the vacuum's magnetic reluctance yields inertial mass and macroscopic spin (ℏ/2), mathematically reproducing the Compton wavelength constraint (mλ = h/c). - Coulomb and Lorentz Forces: The historical duality of electromagnetism is perfectly mapped to the dual properties of the vacuum. The Coulomb force emerges as the linear, elastic response to ε₀, while the Lorentz force represents the orthogonal, inertial response (Magnus effect) to μ₀. - The Fine-Structure Constant (α): Evaluated strictly in terms of electromagnetic flux, α emerges as a pure geometric projection ratio between one-dimensional confined magnetic flux and three-dimensional diffusing electric flux (α = ΦE / 4cΦB). - The Anomalous Magnetic Moment: The Schwinger term α/ (2π) is reinterpreted geometrically as the inevitable fringing of flux at an impedance boundary, translating the perturbative loop expansion of QED into the classical analysis of multiple wave reflections. - The Ontological Inversion of Charge: The concept of an intrinsic elementary charge (e) is completely dissolved into an emergent kinematic parameter (e = √ (2αh/Z₀) ). This reframing is not merely algebraic. It demonstrates that the complex structure of the microscopic realm can be coherently described using the scale-independent response characteristics of the vacuum. AOT pursues ultimate minimalism: physics requires no hidden dimensions or adjusting parameters—only action and the twin resistances of the void. Note: This paper builds upon the operational foundations established in Parts I, II, and III.
Naoyuki Ayaki (Thu,) studied this question.