Some Fundamental Interactions Of Matter Found To Be Fundamentally Different

In summary, new experimental research has found that collisions between a single hydrogen atom and a molecule of deuterium can result in energy transfer, even if the atom strikes the molecule at a glancing angle. This challenges traditional understanding that the atom must strike the molecule directly to deliver energy. The implications of this finding could have significant impacts on our understanding of fundamental interactions of matter.
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Some Fundamental Interactions Of Matter Found To Be Fundamentally Different Than Thought

ScienceDaily (July 2, 2008) — Collisions have consequences. Everyone knows that. Whether it's between trains, planes, automobiles or atoms, there are always repercussions. But while macroscale collisions may have the most obvious effects—mangled steel, bruised flesh—sometimes it is the tiniest collisions that have the most resounding repercussions.

Such may be the case with the results of new experimental research on collisions between a single hydrogen atom and a lone molecule of deuterium—the smallest atom and one of the smallest molecules, respectively—conducted by a team led by Richard Zare, a professor of chemistry at Stanford University.

When an atom collides with a molecule, traditional wisdom said the atom had to strike one end of the molecule hard to deliver energy to it. People thought a glancing blow from an atom would be useless in terms of energy transfer, but that turns out not to be the case, according to the researchers.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080702141421.htm
 
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1. What are the fundamental interactions of matter?

The fundamental interactions of matter refer to the four fundamental forces in physics: gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force. These forces govern how matter interacts with other matter and with energy.

2. How were these fundamental interactions found to be different?

Through experiments and observations, scientists have found that these fundamental interactions behave differently under certain conditions. For example, under extreme temperatures and pressures, the strong nuclear force may dominate over the other forces, while at the atomic level, electromagnetism is the dominant force.

3. What implications do these differences have for our understanding of the universe?

The differences in these fundamental interactions allow us to better understand the behavior and interactions of matter in different contexts. They also provide insights into the structure and functioning of the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest celestial bodies.

4. Can these fundamental interactions be manipulated or controlled?

Yes, scientists have been able to manipulate and control these fundamental interactions to a certain extent. For example, through technology like particle accelerators, we can create and observe high-energy collisions that mimic the conditions of the early universe, providing valuable insights into the fundamental interactions of matter.

5. How does this research impact everyday life?

While the study of fundamental interactions may seem abstract and disconnected from our daily lives, it has practical applications in fields such as energy production, medicine, and technology. Understanding these interactions helps us develop new materials, technologies, and treatments that improve our lives and advance our society.

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