Electroweak Interaction: Theory & Symmetry

In summary, the Colour Force is described by Quantum Chromodynamics, Electromagnetism is described by Quantum Electrodynamics, and Gravity will hopefully be described by a Quantum Gravity Theory. The Electroweak Interaction is described by the Weinberg-Salam or Glashow-Weinberg-Salam model, which is also known as the Electroweak Model. Some sources also refer to it as Quantum Flavordynamics (QFD), although this term is not widely used. The Weak Interactions are essentially described in the Electroweak Model and do not have their own specific theory.
  • #1
Kevin_Axion
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I understand that the Colour Force is described by Quantum Chromodynamics, Electromagnetism is described by Quantum Electrodynamics and Gravity will hopefully be described by a Quantum Gravity Theory but currently General Relativity. But what Theory describes the Electroweak Interaction? Is there any specific theory or is it described in Electroweak-Symmetry?
 
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  • #2
I am not sure if I understood your question correctly but if by electroweak symmetry you mean SU(2)xU(1), then yes. It is generally called Weinberg-Salam or Glashow-Weinberg-Salam model of electroweak interaction.
 
  • #3
Sorry if I confused you, what I was trying to say is that is the Theory that describes Weak Interactions essentially just described in Electroweak Model or does it have it's own theory?Namely, The Weak Theory (synonymous to Quantum Electrodynamics, Quantum Chromodynamics, Quantum Gravity).
 
  • #4
Kevin_Axion said:
Sorry if I confused you, what I was trying to say is that is the Theory that describes Weak Interactions essentially just described in Electroweak Model or does it have it's own theory?Namely, The Weak Theory (synonymous to Quantum Electrodynamics, Quantum Chromodynamics, Quantum Gravity).

Physiana gave you the correct answer, although just "Electroweak" works too.
 
  • #5
I've sometimes seen the name "Quantum Flavordynamics" (QFD), although I don't think it's in widespread use.
 
  • #6
jtbell said:
I've sometimes seen the name "Quantum Flavordynamics" (QFD), although I don't think it's in widespread use.

I don't believe I've heard that before, but on the assumption that it is confusing to the laity, and fanciful, it has my meaningless yet enthusiastic support. :)
 

1. What is the electroweak interaction?

The electroweak interaction is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, along with gravity, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force. It describes the interaction between particles that have electric charge (electromagnetism) and particles that have weak charge (weak nuclear force).

2. What is the theory behind the electroweak interaction?

The theory behind the electroweak interaction is the Standard Model of particle physics. It combines the electromagnetic and weak nuclear forces into a single electroweak force, described by a mathematical framework known as gauge theory.

3. What is the role of symmetry in the electroweak interaction?

Symmetry plays a crucial role in the electroweak interaction. The Standard Model assumes that the laws of physics are symmetric, meaning they should look the same under certain transformations. The electroweak symmetry breaking mechanism explains how the symmetries are broken at certain energy levels, giving particles mass and creating the electroweak force.

4. How has the electroweak interaction been tested and confirmed?

The electroweak interaction has been extensively tested and confirmed through various experiments, including particle accelerators such as the Large Hadron Collider. These experiments have provided evidence for the existence of the Higgs boson, which is responsible for giving particles mass and is a crucial component of the electroweak theory.

5. Are there any current challenges or limitations to the electroweak theory?

While the electroweak theory has been very successful in explaining and predicting the behavior of particles and their interactions, it is not a complete theory and has some limitations. For example, it does not incorporate gravity, and it cannot explain the existence of dark matter or dark energy. Scientists continue to explore and study the electroweak theory to improve our understanding of the universe.

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