The concept of "particles" in the context of quantum field theory is somewhat different from our everyday understanding of discrete, localized entities. In quantum field theory, particles are described as excitations or quanta of underlying fields that permeate all of space. These fields, such as the electromagnetic field or the Higgs field, are fundamental entities that carry energy and momentum.
The reason why quantum field excitations are considered more fundamental or "real" than particles is because they provide a more complete and accurate description of the quantum nature of particles. Quantum field theory combines quantum mechanics and special relativity to describe the behavior of particles and fields in a consistent framework.
In this framework, particles are viewed as localized disturbances or quantized excitations of their respective fields. They can be created or destroyed, and their properties, such as mass, charge, and spin, are determined by the properties of the underlying fields. The fields themselves are fundamental and pervade all of space, while the particles are manifestations or "ripples" in these fields.
Quantum field theory also accounts for phenomena such as particle interactions and the creation and annihilation of particle-antiparticle pairs. These processes involve the exchange of virtual particles, which are temporary excitations of the relevant fields.
In summary, considering quantum field excitations as more real than particles arises from the fact that quantum field theory provides a more comprehensive framework for understanding the behavior of particles in accordance with the principles of quantum mechanics and relativity. It describes particles as manifestations of fundamental fields, and their properties and interactions are described in terms of these underlying fields.