Coupling constants are fundamental parameters in physics that quantify the strength of interactions between particles or fields, playing a crucial role in determining the dynamics and outcomes of physical processes. They are essential in the formulation of theories such as quantum electrodynamics (QED), quantum chromodynamics (QCD), and the Standard Model of particle physics, where they dictate the rates of particle decays and scattering processes.

Coupling Constants

Fundamental parameters in physics

Strength of interactions

Particles or fields

Dynamics of physical processes

Outcomes of physical processes

Formulation of theories

Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) is a quantum field theory that describes how light and matter interact, accounting for electromagnetic forces at the quantum level. It is the first theory where full agreement between quantum mechanics and special relativity is achieved, providing accurate predictions of phenomena such as the anomalous magnetic moment of the electron and the Lamb shift.

Quantum Electrodynamics

Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) is the theory that describes the strong interaction, one of the four fundamental forces, which binds quarks together to form protons, neutrons, and other hadrons. It is a part of the Standard Model of particle physics and explains how the exchange of gluons, the force carriers, gives rise to the properties of nuclear matter.

Quantum Chromodynamics

The Standard Model of Particle Physics is a well-established theory that describes three of the four known fundamental forces in the universe and classifies all known subatomic particles. It successfully explains electromagnetic, weak, and strong nuclear interactions but does not incorporate gravity or account for dark matter and dark energy.

Standard Model Of Particle Physics

Rates of particle decays

Scattering processes describe how particles, waves, or fields deviate from a straight trajectory due to interactions with other particles or potential fields. These interactions are fundamental in understanding phenomena across various domains, including quantum mechanics, optics, and astrophysics.

Concepts

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