The strong interaction outside nucleons - what mediates it?

In summary, the strong interaction outside of nucleons is mediated by the exchange of particles called gluons. These gluons carry the color charge, which is responsible for the strong nuclear force that binds quarks together within nucleons. The strong interaction is a fundamental force in nature, responsible for the stability of atoms and the formation of all visible matter. Gluons play a crucial role in mediating this force, allowing for the exchange of energy and momentum between particles. This interaction has been extensively studied and is an essential component of our understanding of particle physics.
  • #1
Asgrrr
The strong interaction outside nucleons - what mediates it?

Is it gluons?
Is it mesons?
Is it gluons within mesons?

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Depends on your favorite way to interpret it. Mesons will give the easiest description.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
Depends on your favorite way to interpret it. Mesons will give the easiest description.

What is that description then?
 
  • #4
An exchange of mesons - mainly the pions, with some contribution from heavier mesons.
 
  • #5
mfb said:
An exchange of mesons - mainly the pions, with some contribution from heavier mesons.

Thank you, that clears things up nicely.
 

FAQ: The strong interaction outside nucleons - what mediates it?

1. What is the strong interaction outside nucleons?

The strong interaction is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, along with gravity, electromagnetism, and the weak interaction. It is responsible for binding together the subatomic particles, known as quarks and gluons, inside nucleons (protons and neutrons) to form the nucleus of an atom. However, it also mediates the interactions between these particles outside of nucleons.

2. What particles are involved in the strong interaction outside nucleons?

The particles involved in the strong interaction outside nucleons are quarks and gluons. Quarks are the building blocks of protons and neutrons, while gluons are the carriers of the strong force. These particles interact with each other through the exchange of gluons, which hold them together by the strong force.

3. How does the strong interaction outside nucleons differ from the strong interaction inside nucleons?

The strong interaction outside nucleons is similar to the strong interaction inside nucleons in that it also involves the exchange of gluons between quarks. However, the main difference is that the strong force between particles outside nucleons is weaker compared to the strong force between particles inside nucleons. This is because the strong force decreases with distance, and the particles outside nucleons are further apart.

4. What mediates the strong interaction outside nucleons?

The strong interaction outside nucleons is mediated by gluons. These particles are constantly exchanged between quarks, carrying the strong force and binding them together. The strong force is also responsible for holding the protons and neutrons together in the nucleus, and without it, atoms would not exist.

5. How does the strong interaction outside nucleons contribute to our understanding of the universe?

The strong interaction outside nucleons is an essential force in the universe, as it is responsible for holding together the building blocks of matter. Without it, atoms and therefore, all matter, would cease to exist. Additionally, studying the strong interaction outside nucleons can help us understand the behavior of matter at the subatomic level, and provide insights into the structure and formation of the universe.

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