Particle physics is the branch of physics that studies the fundamental constituents of matter and the forces that govern their interactions. By exploring subatomic particles like quarks, leptons, and gauge bosons, it seeks to understand the underlying principles of the universe, often through high-energy experiments like those conducted in particle accelerators.

Particle Physics

Particle physics

fundamental constituents of matter

Forces that govern interactions

Subatomic particles are the fundamental constituents of matter, existing within atoms and comprising protons, neutrons, and electrons. Understanding their interactions and properties is crucial for exploring the nature of matter and the forces governing the universe.

subatomic particles

Quarks are elementary particles and fundamental constituents of matter, combining to form protons and neutrons within atomic nuclei. They interact through the strong force, mediated by gluons, and come in six 'flavors': up, down, charm, strange, top, and bottom, each possessing unique properties such as charge and mass.

quarks

Leptons are fundamental particles that do not undergo strong interactions and are part of the Standard Model of particle physics. They include electrons, muons, tau particles, and their corresponding neutrinos, each having distinct properties such as mass and charge.

leptons

Gauge bosons are fundamental particles that act as carriers of the fundamental forces of nature, mediating interactions between other particles. They are integral to the Standard Model of particle physics, each associated with a specific force: photons for electromagnetic, W and Z bosons for weak, gluons for strong, and the hypothetical graviton for gravity.

gauge bosons

underlying principles of the universe

high-energy experiments

Particle accelerators are devices that use electromagnetic fields to propel charged particles to high speeds and contain them in well-defined beams. They are essential tools in fundamental physics research, enabling the study of subatomic particles and the forces governing their interactions.

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