Top-quark condensate and el.-weak symmetry breaking

In summary, the top-quark condensate is a hypothetical state of matter that could potentially explain the origin of mass in the universe and play a role in electroweak symmetry breaking. This is a fundamental process in particle physics that explains how weak nuclear and electromagnetic forces split. The top-quark condensate is one of many theories proposed to explain this process, suggesting that the top quark could form a condensate with other top quarks. Currently, there is no experimental evidence for its existence, but it is actively being researched. If proven to exist, the top-quark condensate could greatly impact our understanding of the universe and bridge the gap between the Standard Model and theories of quantum gravity.
  • #1
tom.stoer
Science Advisor
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Does anybody know a good (short) reference which explains how a top-quark condensate acting like a "bound state Higgs" generates both fermion and W- / Z-masses?
 
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  • #2
no idea?
 
  • #3
There are a number of variants of what you are looking for:

Look for top quark condensate or Topcolor models.

A good set of lectures here:
arXiv:hep-ph/0203079

or perhaps read one of the original papers

Minimal dynamical symmetry breaking of the standard model. Phys. Rev., D41:1647, 1990.
 
  • #4
thanks
 

1. What is the top-quark condensate?

The top-quark condensate is a hypothetical state of matter in which particles called top quarks bind together to form a condensate, similar to how electrons bind together in a superconductor. This could potentially explain the origin of mass in the universe and play a role in electroweak symmetry breaking.

2. What is electroweak symmetry breaking?

Electroweak symmetry breaking is a fundamental process in particle physics that explains how the weak nuclear force and electromagnetic force split from a single force at high energies. This allows particles to acquire mass and gives rise to the Standard Model of particle physics.

3. How does the top-quark condensate relate to electroweak symmetry breaking?

The top-quark condensate is one of many theories proposed to explain the mechanism behind electroweak symmetry breaking. It suggests that the top quark, being the heaviest known elementary particle, could play a crucial role in this process by binding with other top quarks to form a condensate.

4. Is there any evidence for the existence of a top-quark condensate?

Currently, there is no experimental evidence for the existence of a top-quark condensate. However, theoretical studies and simulations have shown that it is a plausible explanation for electroweak symmetry breaking and is actively being researched by physicists.

5. How does the top-quark condensate affect our understanding of the universe?

If the top-quark condensate is proven to exist, it would revolutionize our understanding of the universe and the fundamental forces that govern it. It could also help bridge the gap between the Standard Model and theories of quantum gravity, providing a better understanding of the fundamental nature of our universe.

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