Can a (uuu) baryon exist? If so, why wouldn't protons decay

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the existence of the (uuu) baryon and its implications for proton decay. Participants clarify that the (uuu) baryon is heavier than the (uud) baryon due to quantum mechanics, specifically the requirement for the total wave function to be antisymmetric under the exchange of up-quarks. This antisymmetry allows the (uud) baryon to have a spin of 1/2, while the (uuu) baryon cannot achieve this state, resulting in a larger mass for the (uuu) baryon. Consequently, the assumption that protons would decay to the (uuu) baryon is incorrect.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics principles, particularly wave function symmetry
  • Understanding of baryon classification and properties
  • Knowledge of baryon decay processes
  • Familiarity with particle physics terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of baryons, focusing on the Delta baryon family
  • Study the implications of quantum mechanics on particle stability
  • Explore the concept of baryon number conservation in particle physics
  • Investigate the relationship between spin and mass in quantum particles
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Particle physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the stability of baryons and the fundamental principles governing particle decay.

Eric Putney
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Is this some sort of issue with color or another quantity that needs to be conserved?
 
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(uuu) is heavier than the lightest (uud) baryon. The reason comes from quantum mechanics: The total wave function has to be antisymmetric under the exchange of up-quarks. (uud) can have spin 1/2, but (uuu) cannot. A larger spin leads to a larger mass.
 
mfb said:
(uuu) is heavier than the lightest (uud) baryon. The reason comes from quantum mechanics: The total wave function has to be antisymmetric under the exchange of up-quarks. (uud) can have spin 1/2, but (uuu) cannot. A larger spin leads to a larger mass.
I suppose that makes sense, thanks for the reply!
 
Orodruin said:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delta_baryon

Why do you think this would make protons decay?
I naively assumed that baryon would be the lightest baryon, lighter than a proton, so I assumed it would eventually decay to the lowest mass. The other reply explained why this would not be the case.
Thanks for the reply!
 

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