How does handedness get preserved in this situation?

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In summary, the video explains that neutrinos travel in relation to the direction of their spin, and while they do not travel at the speed of light, it is possible to outrun them. This means that from the perspective of Earth, a solar neutrino is moving in one direction, but to a higher energy neutrino chasing it, it appears to be moving in the opposite direction. However, when considering spin, helicity, and chirality, it is important to note that they are not always conserved and do not always coincide. Therefore, it is possible to change the helicity of a neutrino by outrunning it. The video only mentions quantum spin, but it is important to consider all three concepts when discussing neutrinos.
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newjerseyrunner
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In this video it's explained that neutrinos always travel related to the direction of their spin. But neutrinos don't travel at the speed of light, so it's possible to outrun it.

That means from the point of view of earth, a solar neutrino is moving in one direction. But to a higher energy neutrino chasing it, it's moving in the opposite direction.

So does spin change based on frame of reference?
 
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  • #2
You are mixing several concepts, spin, helicity and chirality. For a massive particle, only spin is conserved while helicity and chirality aren't. Also helicity and chirality don't coincide. For a massless particle, spin is not well defined (as it is angular momentum in the rest frame, which does not exist for a massless particle), while helicity and chirality coincide.
So yes, you can outrun a neutrino and change its helicity.
 
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  • #3
I'm confused, the video seemed to only mention quantum spin. Was this a mistake? The guys a nuclear phycisist at fermilabs, seems unlikely that he'd make a mistake like that.
 
  • #4
Expecting a complete description in a nine minute video is unrealistic.
 

FAQ: How does handedness get preserved in this situation?

1. How is handedness determined?

Handedness is determined by the dominant hand used for activities such as writing, eating, and throwing. This is typically the hand that is stronger and more coordinated.

2. Is handedness genetic?

Research suggests that handedness is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While there is no specific "handedness gene," studies have shown that genetics play a role in determining hand preference.

3. Can handedness change over time?

In most cases, handedness is established during early childhood and remains consistent throughout a person's lifetime. However, some individuals may switch their dominant hand due to injury or training.

4. Are left-handed people at a disadvantage?

No, being left-handed does not inherently put someone at a disadvantage. While certain tools and objects may be designed for right-handed individuals, left-handed people have adapted and learned to use them effectively.

5. How does handedness get preserved in a population?

Handedness can be preserved in a population through a combination of genetic and environmental factors. As long as there is a mixture of left- and right-handed individuals reproducing and passing on their genes, both traits will continue to be present in the population over time.

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