Atoms Colliding in CERN: What Happens?

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In summary, when atoms collide in CERN, they break down into smaller parts such as glueons and other pieces. It is uncertain if they stay in this state or recombine. The resulting particles and their numbers may vary as long as the total energy/mass is equal to the original particles being smashed together. It is important to note that CERN primarily smashes protons, not atoms, and that atoms are only accelerated and smashed at facilities like RHIC.
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What happens to the atoms when they collide in CERN? They break down into their smaller parts I believe like glueons and other pieces, but do they stay that way or do they then recombine or what? Also do the same atoms, like 2 gold atoms, when smashed together always produce they same particles in the same number? or do the types and number vary as long as the total energy/mas of all the particles are equal to the mass/energy of the 2 original smashed together particles?
 
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discord73 said:
What happens to the atoms when they collide in CERN? They break down into their smaller parts I believe like glueons and other pieces, but do they stay that way or do they then recombine or what? Also do the same atoms, like 2 gold atoms, when smashed together always produce they same particles in the same number? or do the types and number vary as long as the total energy/mas of all the particles are equal to the mass/energy of the 2 original smashed together particles?

Currently at CERN (LHC), they are not smashing atoms, but rather, protons. You cannot accelerate neutral atoms in a particle accelerator.

At RHIC, they accelerate and smash nuclei, such a gold.

There are plenty of threads on what the LHC at CERN are up to in the High Energy Physics forum.

Zz.
 

1. What is the purpose of colliding atoms at CERN?

The purpose of colliding atoms at CERN is to study the fundamental building blocks of matter and the forces that govern them. By colliding atoms at high energies, scientists can recreate the conditions that existed just after the Big Bang and gain a better understanding of the universe.

2. How are atoms collided at CERN?

Atoms are collided at CERN using powerful particle accelerators. These accelerators use electromagnetic fields to accelerate atoms to near the speed of light and then collide them in designated collision points. The collisions are recorded by detectors that surround the collision points.

3. What happens when atoms collide at CERN?

When atoms collide at CERN, they release a tremendous amount of energy, which can create new particles that are not normally observed in nature. These particles are then studied by scientists to understand their properties and behavior.

4. Are there any potential dangers associated with colliding atoms at CERN?

While the collisions at CERN produce a lot of energy, the amount is not enough to pose any significant danger. The safety of the experiments at CERN is carefully monitored and regulated by a team of experts to ensure the well-being of the scientists and the surrounding environment.

5. What are the potential benefits of studying atoms colliding at CERN?

The potential benefits of studying atoms colliding at CERN are numerous. It can help us understand the fundamental laws of nature, develop new technologies, and even discover new particles that could have practical applications in fields such as medicine and energy production.

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