Electroweak unification is a fundamental theory in particle physics that unifies the electromagnetic force and the weak nuclear force into a single electroweak force, which is described by the Glashow-Weinberg-Salam model. This unification is an essential part of the Standard Model of particle physics, explaining phenomena such as the mass of the W and Z bosons through the Higgs mechanism.

Electroweak Unification

Electroweak unification

fundamental theory in particle physics

Electromagnetic force is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, responsible for interactions between charged particles and the behavior of electromagnetic fields. It governs a wide range of phenomena from atomic bonding and chemical reactions to the propagation of light and electromagnetic waves.

electromagnetic force

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

Glashow-Weinberg-Salam model

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

mass of the W and Z bosons

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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