Fundamental point like particles?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of fundamental point particles having shape, size, and structure that are too small for current technology to detect. The idea of zooming in to see any structure is mentioned, with the suggestion that it may be around the Planck length. However, this number has no specific significance and is merely a speculation. The conversation concludes by stating that the original question has been answered and any further discussion would be considered personal theories or speculation.
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Is it possible that fundamental point like particles (ie electrons) are actually particles with shape size and structure that are too small for any of our current technology to detect?
 
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  • #2
Sure, it's possible. How far do you think we'll need to zoom into see any structure?
 
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Dr. Courtney said:
Sure, it's possible. How far do you think we'll need to zoom into see any structure?
Maybe Planck length, somewhere around there, but far too small for any of our current technology to see.
 
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Yes, it is possible, as no measurement can prove that something is exactly zero. Instead, they set an upper bound on the difference between the maximum possible value and zero, and this as true of measurements of the electron size and deviation from perfect spherical symmetry as it is of anything else.
 
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  • #5
Nav said:
Maybe Planck length, somewhere around there

If you're going to make up a number with no supporting argument, that's as good of a number as any... But also no better than any other number you might have chosen.
(If this comment confuses you, check out the wikipedia article on "Planck length" - it has less physical significance than the pop-sci press assumes).

We can close this thread now. The original question has been answered and in the absence of either experimental evidence or plausible theoretical prediction, any further discussion will run afoul of the rule prohibiting speculative discussion and personal theories.
 
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FAQ: Fundamental point like particles?

What are fundamental point-like particles?

Fundamental point-like particles are the smallest building blocks of matter that make up the universe. They are indivisible and have no internal structure.

How many fundamental point-like particles are there?

There are currently 17 known fundamental point-like particles, which are divided into two categories: fermions and bosons.

What is the difference between fermions and bosons?

Fermions are particles that make up matter, such as electrons and quarks. They have half-integer spin and follow the Pauli exclusion principle, meaning that no two fermions can occupy the same quantum state. Bosons, on the other hand, are particles that mediate fundamental forces, such as photons and gluons. They have integer spin and do not follow the exclusion principle.

Can fundamental point-like particles be created or destroyed?

According to the law of conservation of energy, fundamental point-like particles cannot be created or destroyed. They can only be transformed from one type to another through processes like particle collisions.

How do fundamental point-like particles interact with each other?

Fundamental point-like particles interact with each other through the four fundamental forces: gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force. These interactions are described by the standard model of particle physics.

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