‘Strange’ particle possesses mass when moving in one direction, not another
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology |
| Context |
| ● Physicists are discovering new and unusual subatomic particles, like semi-Dirac fermions, which help expand our understanding of matter and the laws of nature. |
| Understanding Subatomic Particles |
| ●Subatomic particles are the basic building blocks of everything in the universe.
●These particles are divided into two main categories: fermions and bosons. ●Fermions, like electrons and protons, are the particles that make up matter. ●Fermions are what form the structure of atoms and, ultimately, all matter around us. ●Bosons, such as photons, help in carrying forces between different particles of matter. ●Bosons play a key role in forces like light and gravity, helping particles interact. ●Understanding these particles helps explain how everything in the universe functions. ●Both fermions and bosons are essential in shaping the physical world we live in. |
Types of Fermions
- Fermions are classified into Dirac fermions and Majorana fermions.
- Dirac fermions may or may not have mass and are different from their antiparticles.
- Majorana fermions are their own antiparticles, with neutrinos suspected to belong to this category.
Challenges in Particle Physics
- Physicists face challenges in identifying missing particles, such as those responsible for gravity.
- Some particles, like Higgs bosons and neutrinos, are heavier than expected.
- Dark matter remains a mystery, as its presence has not been directly detected.
- The Standard Model (SM) organizes known particles but has gaps that need filling.
Discovery of Semi-Dirac Fermions
- Semi-Dirac fermions are unique particles with mass in one direction but not in another.
- They were discovered in zirconium silicon sulphide (ZrSiS), a crystalline material.
- These particles behave as fermions under specific electric and magnetic forces.
Role of Condensed Matter Physics
- Condensed matter physics allows the discovery of exotic particles in smaller, controlled experiments.
- Materials like graphene and ZrSiS act as hosts for particles like semi-Dirac fermions.
- This field provides valuable insights without requiring massive particle colliders.
Future Research and Implications
- Researchers aim to explore ZrSiS further to understand its unusual properties.
- Each discovery helps expand the “particle zoo” and reveals new aspects of the universe.
- Understanding these particles brings physicists closer to uncovering the fundamental laws of nature.
| Practice Question: Examine the significance of semi-Dirac fermions in advancing our understanding of subatomic particles and condensed matter physics. (150 Words /10 marks) |
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