Particle physics is the study of the elementary building blocks of matter and radiation. At this scale, we move beyond atoms to the truly fundamental particles that have no substructure.
: This is the current "rulebook" of the universe, describing 12 matter particles (fermions) and four force carriers (bosons). Foundations of nuclear and particle physics
: These carry the fundamental forces, such as the photon for electromagnetism and the Higgs boson, which gives other particles their mass. Particle physics is the study of the elementary
: These combine to form heavier particles like protons and neutrons (baryons) and mesons. : These carry the fundamental forces, such as
From the infinite vastness of the stars to the infinitesimal heart of an atom, the fields of nuclear and particle physics provide the blueprint for how our universe is built and held together. Whether you're a curious student or a science enthusiast, understanding these foundations is like learning the "source code" of reality. 1. The Building Blocks: Particle Physics
Nuclear physics focuses on the atomic nucleus—the dense core of protons and neutrons at the center of every atom. Fundamental Nuclear and Particle Physics Section
Unlocking the Universe: The Foundations of Nuclear and Particle Physics