What is Particle physics: Definition and 531 Discussions

Particle physics (also known as high energy physics) is a branch of physics that studies the nature of the particles that constitute matter and radiation. Although the word particle can refer to various types of very small objects (e.g. protons, gas particles, or even household dust), particle physics usually investigates the irreducibly smallest detectable particles and the fundamental interactions necessary to explain their behaviour.
In current understanding, these elementary particles are excitations of the quantum fields that also govern their interactions. The currently dominant theory explaining these fundamental particles and fields, along with their dynamics, is called the Standard Model. Thus, modern particle physics generally investigates the Standard Model and its various possible extensions, e.g. to the newest "known" particle, the Higgs boson, or even to the oldest known force field, gravity.

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  1. N

    Prerequisites for Theoretical or Particle Physics

    Hi my name is Nick, I was wondering exactly what I would need, or could begin learning now that would help me get into the field of either Theoretical or Particle Physics. I'm a senior in high school and have gotten interested in physics, specifically those two areas. As a result I have...
  2. L

    Prerequisites for learning particle physics?

    I was wondering what one needs to know before learning particle Physics? And any resources/books that you could suggest to help that process.
  3. T

    Do any of you have a phd in string theory/QED/Theoretical particle physics?

    I am interested in going down that path, and i was wondering if you have any advice? I mean like which schools i should aim for. I am aware that this would be better placed in academic advice, but no one gives advice about mathematical physics there, they all say to do something with better job...
  4. redherring

    Amateur Particle Physics Experiments/Demonstrations

    Hello, I am a amateur-level person living in Canada with an interest in physics, especially particle physics. I have recently been wondering how possible it would be to create some simple/cheap devices to exhibit particle physics. I thought a cloud chamber would be the most feasible idea and...
  5. N

    Popular science book on particle physics

    Hello everyone. I never had the chance to take a class on particle or nuclear physics during my undergrad, so I want to know what everyone's favorite popular science book on particle/nuclear physics is. I'm not looking for a textbook or something overly mathematical (there's a reason I decided...
  6. J

    What is a first order process in particle physics

    I was given the following question Which of the reactions on the right are allowed by first-order processes? For those which are not allowed, state one conservation law which is violated. What is a first order process in particle physics? i.e what does first order refer to? What would be...
  7. D

    What are the basics of fusion in particle physics?

    I'm trying to find fusion (let's say of 2 hydrogen nucleus) in particle physics, I've just started with my self study of Particle physics book, any info in regards to fusion (Any Equation, solution) would be very helpfull.. THANKS.....
  8. Q

    Advice for an Undergrad student wanting to become a theoretical particle physics

    Hi guys, I'm in the second year of my undergraduate degree at Melbourne University. The subjects I have done this year are: - Real Analysis - Vector Calculus - Group Theory & Linear Algebra - Quantum Mechanics & Special Relativity - Thermal & Classical Physics - Electromagnetism &...
  9. E

    Particle Physics: Recommended Reading After Griffiths' Intro

    I've recently finished a course using Griffiths' Intro to Elementary Particles. I'm interested in the subject, but what would you recommend for reading after that? I'm not planning to pursue particle physics or theoretical physics. I've considered Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell by Zee. I...
  10. E

    Exploring the Mysteries of Particle Physics

    Hello, I have several questions, perhaps not correctly asked, however I must get the concepts right, I'm intrigued. :bugeye: What does it mean that the strong force is 137 times stronger than EM force? Are particle collisions in particle physics also considered as wave-collisions with...
  11. B

    Programs Particle Physics Research as a Mech. Engg: Guide & Opportunities

    Hi, I am B.E. Mechanical Engg. candidate. But i am crazy about particle physics. I want to do research in atomic and particle physics. Can anyone guide me how to get into research since I don't have physics as my graduate degree. I know i have to do msc and phd but can anyone give guidance which...
  12. mg0stisha

    Particle Physics: Advice for Sophomore Student

    Sorry to write a cliché post, but here goes. I'm very interested in particle physics, I'm going to be a sophomore at a small university this coming fall. I wanted to know a couple things: 1. Is there any good particle physics books I could buy/get at a library to start self studying? I...
  13. K

    Schools What are the top 20 or 30 schools in theoretical particle physics

    Hi guys, I'd like to know universities, other than harvards and princetons, that have very strong groups in theoretical particle physics and need students. Mostly strong groups in theoretical particle physics are in the top 10 universiies, like MIT and so on but it is extremely hard to get into...
  14. G

    Schools Graduate schools in particle physics

    Hello, I'm a ungrad inbetween my junior and senior year, and I'm looking to go into particle physics. Specifically, I'm interested in entering a graduate program with researchers who specialize in Yang-Mills, string theory, and/or SUGRA. I'm also interested in gravitation and its relationship...
  15. A

    Understanding the OZI Rule in Particle Physics

    HELP! OZI rule Can anyone give me an explanation of the OZI rule in particle physics which is a bit better than "if you can split a feynman diagram in two by cutting gluon lines then it is suppressed"
  16. S

    Particle Physics Integral Calculation

    Homework Statement In calculating the quantum mechanical amplitude for the Coulomb potential (scattering of say \alpha particle off a massive particle of charge Ze), I came across a Fourier transform which I could not calculate. If U(r)=\frac{2Ze^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0 r} then...
  17. U

    Relationship between group theory and particle physics?

    I'm just a year 12 student with an interest in mathematics and physics, but I have a question (or rather a few) for particle physicists/mathematicians out there. I have read a little about abstract algebra - to about the extent of knowing the definition of a group, its relationship to...
  18. M

    Particle physics conservation laws

    I am working on a homework assignment for my particle physics class, and it requires I understand what forces conserve what quantum numbers. As I understand it: Strong Conserves Isospin, I3 projection, s, c, b, t, Baryon number, lepton flavor E&M Conserves I3 projection, s, c, b...
  19. ZapperZ

    What is the problem with Reuters' glossary of particle physics terms?

    Just when you think you've read enough bad physics reporting in the mass media, along comes Reuters and lowers the bar even further down. http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE62T1EQ20100330 I'm really puzzled by how they can let something like this through, considering that one can easily...
  20. L

    What interactions are involved in these particle decays?

    justify which interactions is involved in each of the following: \pi^0 \rightarrow \gamma \gamma \pi^+ \rightarrow \mu^+ \nu_\mu \pi^- p \rightarrow \triangle (1232) \rightarrow \pi^0 n K^0 \rightarrow \pi^+ \pi^- ok the first one i ruled out strong force since particles on right don't...
  21. J

    Analysis of the Isospin of meson and baryon bounded states (particle physics)

    Homework Statement Part A) Establish which of the following combinations of particles can exist in a state of I=1 : a) \pi^0\pi^0 b) \pi^+\pi^- c) \pi^+\pi^+ d) \Sigma^0\pi^0 e) \Lambda^0\pi^0 Part B) of the problem is: In what states of isospin may exist the following systems? f)...
  22. A

    How particle physics is visualized

    Hey, I hope you are all dong well and that i am in the right place. I am not at all that good at physics. I am taking a physics class in school because i thought it was interesting. And I find it more interesting now. My problem: My new assignment requires that I describe how invisible...
  23. S

    The best elementary book to study Particle physics

    I am looking forward to study Particle physics on my own. Can someone suggest me a book which I can read and understand by myself?
  24. S

    Particle physics and quantum physics

    particle physics and quantum physics... can u tell me some difference between particle physics and quantum physics
  25. R

    Recommend Intro Books to Particle Physics?

    Hello everyone- I was wondering if anyone could recommend introductory books on particle physics? I'm looking for something an undergrad could read as if they were taking a beginning course. I've searched Amazon and found tons of college textbooks only I'm not sure which ones are...
  26. L

    What is decay length in particle physics?

    Hi,all, what is decay length in particle physics? I could not find on web, so frustrating. Thanks a lot for any helps!
  27. F

    Physics Life after Theoretical Particle Physics Ph.D.

    Hi, I am half way of a Ph.D. in theoretical particle physics in an European university. I have started to worry about my future after learning how really difficult it is to get a position, how much do postdocs earn and how difficult it is for some to find a good job outside academy. The truth...
  28. D

    Will Susskind's Particle Physics Lectures Result in a New Book?

    The lectures from Susskind's lectures on particle physics which he hold this fall started to be available on iTunesU on Stanford;s home and youtube. Currently there are 2 on youtube and 3 on itunesU.
  29. R

    In particle physics, what does 'coupling' mean?

    Hi, In particle physics, what does 'coupling' mean? I can't find a definition anywhere and books just assume you know what it is. For example, "the Higgs couples to light particles". Also, what does it mean to say that something strongly or weakly couples to something else? Any help...
  30. B

    Particle physics calculations?

    I'm currently studying physics at A-level, and for particle physics I'm fine about the theory of the equations, I remember what equations to use etc, but I can't seem to get the right answers from my calculator. For example, when working out the specific charge of a carbon ion with Z = 6, A =...
  31. M

    Should I go for particle physics? O.O

    Halo! =D I want to get into particle physics. It all started out great until I start my first semester of uni (about to finish first sem. xD). I realized that most students in the physics program is a) super serious b) super smart and c) know tons beyond the first year level. Now my...
  32. P

    Experimental Particle Physics book(s)

    I' m interested in experimental particle physics (graduate level). All books I know are focused on theory, do you know any book which focus on experiment? tnx
  33. K

    Particle Physics Struggles: Which Interactions are Most Likely?

    I'm struggling a bit with my module on particle physics. This is only part of the problem set, but I need it for the rest (which is asking whether or not some particular decays are possible). My problem is: How can you tell which is the most likely interaction for certain processes? For...
  34. G

    Particle physics / ideal gas problem

    Homework Statement Dust particles are approximately 11.0 micrometers in diameter. They are pulverized rock, with density 2500 kg/m^3. If you treat dust as an ideal gas, what is the rms speed of a dust particle at 23.0 degrees C? Homework Equations I have no idea. The only one I would...
  35. N

    Particle physics: calculating the phase space factor for pion to muon decay

    Show that the phase space factor \rho \propto p^2 dp/dE for the decay \pi\rightarrow \mu + \upsilon is \rho \propto \frac{({m_\pi}^2 - {m_\mu}^2)^2}{{m_\pi}^3}E_\mu where E is the total energy.I can show that p^2 = ({m_\pi}^2 - {m_\mu}^2)^2/4{m_\pi}^2 but then I get stuck, I don't know how...
  36. Bob_for_short

    Who is most respected in particle physics?

    Dear Marcus, You know everybody in the particle and QG fields and their reputations. Could you name several names of senior, experienced theoretical particle physicists who are highly respected, please? Responses of other PF members are also welcome. Regards, Vladimir.
  37. T

    Particle physics - invariant mass question

    Homework Statement At HERA 30 GeV electrons collided head on with 820 GeV protons. Calculate the invariant mass of ep collisions. (masses: e=0.0005GeV, p=0.938GeV) Homework Equations M^2 = (E1 + E2)^2 - (p1 + p2)^2 ? The Attempt at a Solution I know the numerical answer to...
  38. marcus

    Talk by Weinberg about LHC and future of particle physics (video)

    Excellent talk at clear basic level. To save time, one can start at minute 7:00. That's where he discusses the standard model and then the Higgs, and then moves on to what else might be found. http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/2384517 I gather the talk was given this morning, 19 October, at a...
  39. K

    Particle physics: energy conservation

    Hi, I've managed to get extremely confused; I feel like I'm getting told different things! I hope someone can just clarify this for me. If you have a reaction, say for example: p pion+ --> p p (where p is a proton) is it true that the rest mass afterwards must be less than the rest mass...
  40. J

    Introductory Particle Physics - Form factor, charge distribution?

    Here is the problem. I've been messing around with it for a while but I'm not sure if what I'm trying to do is the right way to approach this. The form factor F(q) = \int\rho(\vec{r})e^{i\vec{q}.\vec{r}/\hbar}d^{3}\vec{r} is the 3D Fourier Transform of the normalised charge distribution...
  41. G

    Particle physics & QFT, A conceptual question

    Hi In Halzen's "Quarks & Leptons" all discussed particle interactions conserve particle number in some sense (Actually particle number is not conserved but if you count the particles minus the antiparticles before the reaction you get the same "particles minus the antiparticles" number after...
  42. PrincePhoenix

    Physics Jobs in Nuclear physics and Particle physics.

    What jobs can one get after doing a PhD in nuclear physics or particle physics except for lecturership? Where are they used?
  43. B

    Were any 'breakthroughs' in particle physics

    made in the Soviet Union?
  44. B

    Programs Phd in Condensed Matter or Particle Physics?

    I'm a final year BSc Maths & Physics student and need to start applying for MSc's this autumn. My problem is, I don't know whether to study for a particle physics MSc or a generalist physics/applied maths MSc. I am currently doing a research project in CMT and I'm liking it a lot, but I have no...
  45. N

    What's the Standard Model of Particle Physics

    I'm trying to figure out what the standard model of particle physics is, what is included, who decides what's included, and how one would know when a new concept/theory is included or possibly rejected. It would be great to have a list of recent additions or experimental confirmations. Must...
  46. D

    Particle physics when light wave expands infinitely

    What happens to the particulate nature of light as a light expands outward infinitely from a single point light source. Pretty much all light in the universe does that, except only where lensing takes place to create a non-divergent beam of light ... although I think such a thing is a near...
  47. S

    Particle Physics in Uni. of Manchester-Review and comment.

    Particle Physics in Uni. of Manchester--Review and comment. Hi everyone, I am applying a MSc in Particle Physics at Uni of Manchester. I've done some research on the university ranking by subject area, student's reviews...etc. which are posted on the net. But I am hoping to get more info...
  48. S

    A good school for particle physics

    I would like to go to a school (In America) that is decent and has courses which would allow me to major in something such as quantum mechanics, high energy particle physics, or string theory (basically any kind of abstract, theoretical physics/science). I am a low A high B student, so i do...
  49. N

    Courses Courses: Nuclear and particle physics?

    Hi all. Would you believe that it is necessary for me to take a course in "Nuclear and Particle Physics" in order to be able to do graduate work in condensed matter physics/quantum optics? Thank you in advance. Niles.
  50. S

    Quantum, PDE, topology, and particle physics texts, oh my

    Hello all! So, I'll be taking first-semester quantum mechanics and partial differential equations this fall, and would like to get a little bit of a head start by reading/working some problems on my own this summer. After some initial browsing, I've heard mixed-to-poor reviews concerning...
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