The Higgs field is a theoretical concept in particle physics that describes the existence of a field that permeates all of space. It is responsible for giving particles their mass.
The Higgs boson is a particle that is associated with the Higgs field. The Higgs field interacts with other particles, giving them mass, and the Higgs boson is the particle that carries this interaction.
Yes, the Higgs field is believed to have a non-zero energy density, meaning that there is energy associated with it. This energy is thought to contribute to the overall energy of the universe.
The discovery of the Higgs field and the Higgs boson has helped to support the Standard Model of particle physics, which is our current best understanding of the fundamental particles and forces in the universe. It also plays a crucial role in explaining how particles obtain mass.
While the Higgs field may not have immediate practical applications, understanding its properties and interactions is crucial for furthering our understanding of the universe and potentially leading to new technologies. For example, the Large Hadron Collider at CERN was built specifically to study the Higgs boson and its associated field.