The fine structure constant, also known as the Sommerfeld constant, is a dimensionless number that characterizes the strength of the electromagnetic interaction between elementary particles.
The fine structure constant is important because it governs the behavior of electrically charged particles, such as electrons, in atoms. It also plays a crucial role in understanding the structure of atoms, molecules, and the entire universe.
The currently accepted value of the fine structure constant is approximately 1/137. This value is based on experimental measurements and theoretical calculations.
The fine structure constant is determined through a combination of theoretical calculations and experimental measurements. These calculations and measurements are performed using highly precise instruments and techniques in the fields of quantum mechanics and particle physics.
The value of the fine structure constant has been found to be constant over time through numerous experiments and observations. However, some theories, such as string theory, suggest that the fine structure constant may have varied in the early stages of the universe.