String tension for quark anti-quark binding

In summary, the potential for quark anti-quark binding includes a Coulomb-like term and a term from the strong nuclear force. The string tension (represented by σ) is independent of quark flavor, as is the value of k. The Coulomb term from electromagnetic forces is negligible compared to the strong force.
  • #1
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For quark anti-quark binding the potential takes the form:

[itex]V(r) = -k/r + σr[/itex]

Where the first term comes from the Coulomb force and the second term comes from the strong nuclear force.

My question is whether [itex]σ[/itex] is the same for all quark anti-quark pairs or if it's different depending on which quark anti-quark pair is binding?

If so is there a way to calculate the string tension for a bottom anti-charm pair given [itex]σ[/itex] for the bottom anti-bottom and charm anti-charm mesons.
 
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  • #2
##\sigma## should be independent of the quark flavor. So should ##k## for that matter: the ##-k/r## term is actually also from the strong force, which has a Coulomb-like behavior at short distances (but with a different ##k## than the electromagnetic Coulomb force). In principle there is also an actual electromagnetic Coulomb term that depends on the electric charges of the two quarks, but this is negligible compared to the strong force.
 
  • #3
Ah okay thanks for clearing that up :)
 

1. What is string tension in the context of quark anti-quark binding?

String tension refers to the force that holds quarks and anti-quarks together in a bound state. It is a fundamental force in the theory of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) and is responsible for the strong nuclear force.

2. How is string tension measured?

String tension is typically measured through lattice QCD simulations, which use supercomputers to calculate the behavior of quarks and gluons in a vacuum. It can also be indirectly measured through experiments that study the properties of hadrons, which are particles made up of quarks and anti-quarks.

3. What factors affect the string tension for quark anti-quark binding?

The string tension for quark anti-quark binding is affected by a few factors, such as the distance between the quark and anti-quark, the strength of the strong nuclear force, and the properties of the quarks themselves (such as their mass and spin).

4. How does string tension contribute to the stability of hadrons?

String tension is a crucial component in the formation and stability of hadrons. It is responsible for binding quarks and anti-quarks together, forming particles such as protons and neutrons. Without string tension, hadrons would not exist and the universe would look very different.

5. Can string tension be observed in everyday life?

No, string tension is a phenomenon that occurs at the subatomic level and cannot be observed in everyday life. It is only observable through advanced scientific experiments and calculations. However, the effects of string tension can be seen in the behavior and properties of hadrons, which make up the matter around us.

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