How Does Nucleon Shape Relate to Quark Number and Electric Quadrupole Moment?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the shape of nucleons, their quark composition, and the concept of electric quadrupole moments. It explores theoretical aspects of nucleon structure, quark arrangements, and the implications for baryons with different spins.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that nucleons, composed of three quarks, may have a triangular arrangement rather than a tetrahedral one, implying a flat structure.
  • Others argue that quarks do not have a well-defined arrangement or position within a nucleon, indicating a more complex internal structure.
  • One participant notes that four quarks cannot form a color-neutral hadron, while two quarks and two antiquarks can form short-lived tetraquarks.
  • A participant compares the spatial arrangement of nucleons and electrons in atomic structures, suggesting that while they may not have a preferred orientation, their configurations can be analyzed in terms of geometric shapes.
  • Questions are raised about whether spin 1/2 baryons like nucleons and spin 3/2 baryons such as omega hyperons and delta resonances possess electric quadrupole moments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the arrangement of quarks within nucleons and the implications for their shapes. The discussion includes unresolved questions about the electric quadrupole moments of various baryons, indicating a lack of consensus.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about quark arrangements and their implications for nucleon shape remain unaddressed. The discussion does not resolve the complexities of baryon structures or the conditions under which electric quadrupole moments may arise.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying particle physics, particularly in understanding nucleon structure, quark dynamics, and the properties of baryons.

jk22
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If a nucleon is let say made of 3 quarks then they rather build a triangle than a tetrahedron, so they are flat ? Why is there not 4 quarks ?
 
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They don't have any particular arrangement. They don't even have a well-defined position in a proton (except from "everywhere in the proton", if you prefer that view).

4 quarks cannot form a color-neutral hadron. Two quarks and two antiquarks can, you get short-living tetraquarks in that case.
 
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A proton and electron in a protium atom are on a line at any moment, except when the electron is at the cusp. But they do not have a preferred spatial direction at their ground state of 1s - over time, the electron can be in any direction. The He nucleus and two electrons are always on a flat triangle, but in their ground state (both 1s) do not have a preferred spatial orientation either.
 
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Do spin 1/2 baryons such as nucleons possesses electric quadrupole moment?
Do spin 3/2 baryons such as omega hyperon and delta resonances possesses electric quadrupole moment?
 

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