Does a charge have spin outside an atom?

In summary, the spin of electrons is taken into account at electron-positron colliders, but it is not relevant at high-energetic proton-(anti)proton collisions. The TOTEM experiment may be an exception, but in general, the spin of protons is not a significant factor in these collisions.
  • #1
aditya23456
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Is spin of electron taken into account when people accelerate electron in LHC?
 
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  • #2
The LHC accelerates protons, not electrons.

Electrons (and all other particles with spin) have a spin outside of atoms.

This spin is taken into account at electron- positron colliders.

The spin is not relevant at high-energetic proton-(anti)proton collisions, as you don't care about elastic collisions there*. Deep inelastic collisions (the interesting stuff) are collisions between parts of the protons, where you cannot control the spin anyway.*don't tell that the scientists of the TOTEM experiment. But the proton spin is so small that I don't think they care about it.
 

1. What is spin in terms of atomic particles?

Spin is an intrinsic property of subatomic particles, such as electrons, protons, and neutrons. It is not an actual physical spinning motion, but rather a quantum mechanical property that describes the angular momentum of these particles.

2. Does a charge have spin outside of an atom?

Yes, charges have spin outside of an atom. This applies to all subatomic particles with a non-zero charge, including electrons, protons, and other elementary particles.

3. How is spin measured in subatomic particles?

Spin is measured in units of angular momentum, specifically in multiples of Planck's constant divided by 2π. This unit is known as a spin quantum number.

4. What is the significance of spin in subatomic particles?

Spin plays a crucial role in determining the behavior and properties of subatomic particles. It affects their magnetic properties, how they interact with each other, and their overall stability.

5. Can the spin of a charge change?

Yes, the spin of a charge can change through interactions with other particles or through external forces. However, the total amount of spin in a closed system remains constant, in accordance with the law of conservation of angular momentum.

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