This diagram shows an electron and an antielectron (positron) being created from nothing, then annihilating themselves back into nothing. According to our understanding of quantum physics, which statement about this process is true?

A) This creation of something from nothing is permitted by the uncertainty principle, as long as the particles return to nothingness in a short enough time.
B) The process shown is impossible because it would violate the law of conservation of energy.
C) The diagram must be missing something, such as photons coming in on the left and going out on the right.
D) This process can occur only near a black hole.


A) This creation of something from nothing is permitted by the uncertainty principle, as long as the particles return to nothingness in a short enough time.

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