Charge Quantized: Explaining the Contradiction

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the apparent contradiction between the quantization of charge and the existence of quarks with fractional charges. It establishes that all observable charges are integer multiples of the elementary charge (e), as particles like protons are composed of quarks whose charges sum to +e. The conversation emphasizes that while quarks possess fractional charges (+2/3e and -1/3e), they do not exist freely in nature, and thus, macroscopic electric charges arise solely from protons and electrons. This understanding resolves the contradiction by reinforcing the principle of charge quantization at the macroscopic level.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of elementary charge (e) and its significance in physics
  • Basic knowledge of quark composition and their fractional charges
  • Familiarity with electrostatics and electrodynamics principles
  • Concept of particle confinement and its implications in quantum theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of quarks and their role in particle physics
  • Explore the concept of charge quantization in quantum field theory
  • Learn about the implications of confinement in quantum chromodynamics (QCD)
  • Investigate the relationship between macroscopic charges and fundamental particles
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particle physicists, and educators seeking to deepen their understanding of charge quantization and the behavior of fundamental particles in quantum mechanics.

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When I first study the chapter Charge, I was told that charges are quantized, that is, you can't find a charge of like 6.2e or 1/3e.

But later, when I got into the quantum theory, I was told that there are quarks, which have charges like +2/3e or -1/3e.

Don't these two statements contradict?

How can we explain this contradiction?
 
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No, the two statements do not contradict one another. Any particle has a charge of an integer multiple of e. Particles, like the proton for example, are made up of a quarks, the sum of the charges of which will always equal an integer multiple of e-- in the case of a proton, +e.
 
I would like to add here that electric charges in the macroscopic world develop only due to exchange of electrons/protons. Though protons are made of quarks, these quarks never roam about freely to create any sort of charge or current in a body. So, we only consider the charge on an electron or a proton while studying electrostatics and electrodynamics, which ,as you know, always remains constant.

Mr V
 

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