String Theory For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 8

The Standard Model of Particle Physics

IN THIS CHAPTER

Accepting the atom and examining its parts

Applying quantum physics to the atom’s bits and pieces

Categorizing particles into bosons and fermions

Using the Standard Model to reveal four forces of physics

Pondering the range of energies and masses observed

During the mid-1900s, physicists further explored the foundations of quantum physics and the components of matter. They focused on the study of particles in a field that became known as particle physics. More itty-bitty particles seemed to spring up every time physicists looked for them! By 1974, physicists had determined a set of rules and principles called the Standard Model of particle physics — a model that includes all interactions except gravity. While some of the finer features of the Standard Model may need to be corrected, by and large it captures most of the features of elementary particles.

Here we explore the Standard Model of particle physics and how it ...