Electroweak Theory is a unified framework that describes two of the four fundamental forces of nature, electromagnetism and the weak nuclear force, as manifestations of a single electroweak force. It was formulated in the 1960s and is a crucial component of the Standard Model of particle physics, contributing to our understanding of particle interactions and the Higgs mechanism.

Electroweak Theory

unified framework

fundamental forces of nature

Electromagnetism is a fundamental force in nature responsible for electric and magnetic phenomena, described by Maxwell's equations, which unify electricity, magnetism, and light as manifestations of the same force. It plays a crucial role in modern technology, from power generation and transmission to telecommunications and electronic devices.

electromagnetism

The weak nuclear force is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, responsible for processes like beta decay in atomic nuclei. It is characterized by its short-range and the ability to change the flavor of quarks, playing a crucial role in the fusion reactions that power stars.

weak nuclear force

single electroweak force

formulated in the 1960s

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

Particle interactions are fundamental processes that govern the behavior of particles in the universe, dictating how they influence each other through fundamental forces. These interactions are crucial for understanding phenomena ranging from atomic structures to cosmic events, and are described by theories such as the Standard Model of particle physics.

particle interactions

The Higgs Mechanism explains how particles acquire mass through their interaction with the Higgs field, which permeates the universe. The discovery of the Higgs boson at CERN in 2012 provided critical evidence supporting this mechanism, confirming a pivotal aspect of the Standard Model of particle physics.

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