Are There Particles Smaller Than Quarks?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Ki Man
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether there are particles smaller than quarks, exploring the nature of quarks and their classification within the Standard Model of particle physics. Participants touch on concepts related to fundamental particles, including electrons and their properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant wonders if there are particles smaller than quarks, noting that quarks (up, down, anti-, etc.) are fundamental constituents of matter.
  • Another participant references an external link, suggesting it may contain relevant information about particle sizes.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about whether electrons are smaller than quarks, indicating a possible misreading of the information.
  • It is mentioned that the Standard Model treats both quarks and leptons as pointlike, implying they have no substructure.
  • One participant asks for clarification on what exactly a quark is, indicating a need for more foundational understanding.
  • A response suggests looking up basic definitions of quarks, indicating that the information is readily available online.
  • Another participant asserts that electrons are fundamental particles and states that there are no quarks associated with them, reflecting a personal interpretation of particle classification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of quarks and electrons, with some uncertainty about their classifications and sizes. No consensus is reached regarding whether there are particles smaller than quarks.

Contextual Notes

Some statements reflect personal interpretations and may depend on varying definitions of fundamental particles. The discussion includes unresolved questions about the nature of quarks and their comparison to electrons.

Ki Man
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i was just wondering if there's anything smaller than a quark because as far as i know up, down, anti-, etc. quarks make up the universe.
 
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Have you read this?


https://www.physicsforums.com/archive/t-27711_electron's_radius.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
so electrons are smaller than quarks. i think. maybe i misread it
 
I believe the Standard Model currently treats both quarks and leptons as pointlike.

This should be moved to the Particles section.
 
What exactly is a quark??

What exactly is a quark??
 
An electron is a fundamental particle. There are no quarks associated. At least, that's my understanding.
 

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