Is magnetism important in particle interaction?

In summary, magnetism is a fundamental force that is important in particle interactions. It is responsible for attractive and repulsive forces between particles and can cause changes in their direction, spin, and properties. While not the strongest force, it affects all particles, with varying strengths depending on their properties.
  • #1
magphys
5
0
If you fire energetic ionising particles, like electrons or protons, at a stationary target, the important interactions are ionisation, nuclear reactions and scattering.

But if the incoming particles are traveling at high speed, will they not generate a high magnetic field? Why is such a magnetic field not important in reactions other than ionisation?

If my assumptions are wrong, please feel free to point it out!
 
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  • #2
In electron-electron scattering at high energy, the magnetic interaction is dominant.
 
  • #3
Thanks that's helpful. Sometimes I can't see the wood for the trees!
 

1. Is magnetism important in particle interaction?

Yes, magnetism is a fundamental force that plays a crucial role in particle interaction. It is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, along with gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces. Magnetism is responsible for the attraction and repulsion of particles, which is essential for many processes in particle interactions.

2. How does magnetism affect particle interactions?

Magnetism affects particle interactions in several ways. Firstly, it is responsible for the attractive and repulsive forces between particles, which can determine the stability of certain structures. Additionally, magnetism can cause particles to change their direction or spin, which can alter their behavior and interactions with other particles.

3. Can magnetism change the properties of particles?

Yes, magnetism can change the properties of particles. When a particle interacts with a magnetic field, it can experience a force that can alter its movement, spin, or energy. This can lead to changes in the particle's properties, such as its mass, charge, or magnetic moment.

4. Is magnetism stronger than other forces in particle interactions?

No, magnetism is not stronger than other forces in particle interactions. The strength of a force is determined by its coupling constant, which measures the strength of the interaction between particles. While magnetism is one of the fundamental forces, its coupling constant is weaker than that of the strong and weak nuclear forces.

5. Are all particles affected by magnetism?

Yes, all particles are affected by magnetism. However, the strength of the interaction between a particle and a magnetic field depends on the particle's properties, such as its mass, charge, and spin. Some particles, like electrons, are highly affected by magnetism, while others, like photons, have no electric charge and are not affected by magnetic fields.

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