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JoePhysicsNut
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The W couples to left-handed particles only. What about the Z? Is it the same?
Thanks in advance!
Thanks in advance!
Bill_K said:The Z couples to both. Quoting from Halzen and Martin, the W coupling is -i(g/√2)½γμ(1 - γ5), which is left-hand only. By contrast, the Z coupling is -i(g/cos θW)½γμ(cV - cAγ5) where cV = T3 - 2 sin2θWQ and cA = T3.
T3 is the weak isospin of the fermion in question and Q is its charge.
For e-, μ- the values are cA = -1/2, cV = -0.03.
For u, c quarks, cA = 1/2, cV = 0.19.
For d, s quarks, cA = -1/2, cV = -0.34.
The weak force is one of the four fundamental forces in nature, alongside gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong nuclear force. It is responsible for nuclear decay and certain types of radioactive decay. Left-handed particles refer to particles that have a specific spin orientation relative to the direction of motion. Weak force coupling to left-handed particles refers to the interaction between these particles and the weak force.
The weak force primarily couples to left-handed particles through the exchange of W and Z bosons, which are carriers of the weak force. Left-handed particles interact with the weak force more strongly than right-handed particles, making them more likely to participate in weak force interactions.
The weak force coupling to left-handed particles plays a crucial role in the structure of matter. It is responsible for radioactive decay, which is essential for the stability of the atomic nucleus. It also plays a role in the formation of stars and the evolution of the universe.
Scientists study the weak force coupling to left-handed particles through high-energy particle accelerators and experiments. By colliding particles at high speeds, they can observe the interactions between left-handed particles and the weak force, providing insights into the fundamental nature of matter and the universe.
While the weak force coupling to left-handed particles may not have direct practical applications, our understanding of this phenomenon has led to advancements in technology and medicine. For example, the particle accelerators used to study this force have also been used in medical treatments, such as cancer therapy. Additionally, our understanding of the weak force has led to the development of technologies like positron emission tomography (PET) scans, which are used in medical imaging.