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Name: Nick L.
Status: N/A
Age: 15
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: 2000-2001
Question:
What was the main link between electromagnetism and weak theories to create the electroweak theory? Does it have to do with beta decay?

Replies:
Nick,

Originally, weak interactions were thought to be separate from electromagnetic forces. Eventually, three fairly massive particles were discovered: W+, W-, Z. The weak force is an electromagnetic interaction producing one of these particles. The particle travels then is absorbed through electromagnetic interactions with another particle. Although the Z-particle has no electric charge, it does have a spin. It can interact with magnetic force. Standard electromagnetic force is transmitted by photons of light. Weak force is transmitted by these "weak" particles. Still the actual interactions are the based on the same force.

Dr. Ken Mellendorf


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