How does Partcle Symmetry affect the way a Particle Behaves?

In summary, particles with different symmetries behave differently and may interact with each other in special ways. Symmetry is a term used to describe the conservation laws that constrain physical equations, and it is related to Noether's theorem. This concept is complex and requires further study to fully understand its profound impact on modern physics.
  • #1
ChrisisC
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How does a particles symmetry effect the way it behaves? Do particles with similar symmetry interact with each other in a special way than 2 particles with different symmetries?
 
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  • #2
ChrisisC said:
How does a particles symmetry effect the way it behaves? Do particles with similar symmetry interact with each other in a special way than 2 particles with different symmetries?
What do you mean by symmetry? Do you mean symmetric vs. antisymmetric wavefunctions, i.e. bosons vs. fermions?
 
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  • #3
DennisN said:
What do you mean by symmetry? Do you mean symmetric vs. antisymmetric wavefunctions, i.e. bosons vs. fermions?

well actually i read it in a book, the symbols used to represent symmetry were S with a subscript of 2 or 3 (i don't know how to do a subscript on iphone).
 
  • #4
ChrisisC said:
well actually i read it in a book, the symbols used to represent symmetry were S with a subscript of 2 or 3 (i don't know how to do a subscript on iphone).
Symmetry is a term for the conservation laws that constrain physical equations. Two interacting particles will obey the laws of physics. It is the laws that have symmetries. For example energy conservation can be thought of as invariance under time translation. So time translation is part of a group of transformations.

This is all very technical but that is what you probably stumbled on and it defies description in simple terms.
 
  • #5
Mentz114 said:
This is all very technical but that is what you probably stumbled on and it defies description in simple terms.

Read the following:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0750628960/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/3319192000/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Its tied up with Noethers beautiful theorem:
http://hackaday.com/2016/06/14/symmetry-for-dummies-noethers-theorem/

Its not simple and will require considerable study, but represents probably the most profound revelation of modern physics. It stunned Einstein. We have professors here that when they tell their students they sit in silent awe because of how how deep and profound its startling revelation is.

Thanks
Billl
 
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  • #6
bhobba said:
Read the following:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0750628960/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/3319192000/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Its tied up with Noethers beautiful theorem:
http://hackaday.com/2016/06/14/symmetry-for-dummies-noethers-theorem/

Its not simple and will require considerable study, but represents probably the most profound revelation of modern physics. It stunned Einstein. We have professors here that when they tell their students they sit in silent awe because of how how deep and profound its startling revelation is.

Thanks
Billl
Thanks, but I'm fully aware of that. Trying to express this in B-language defeated me and my post is ... ugh.
 
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1. What is Particle Symmetry and how does it affect particle behavior?

Particle symmetry refers to the balance or symmetry of a particle's fundamental properties, such as mass, charge, and spin. This balance is important for understanding how particles interact with each other and how they behave in different environments. The symmetry of a particle can determine its stability, decay rate, and interactions with other particles.

2. How does Particle Symmetry affect the stability of a particle?

The symmetry of a particle can determine its stability. Particles with higher symmetry tend to be more stable, meaning they are less likely to decay into other particles. This is because particles with higher symmetry have a more balanced distribution of properties, making them less likely to undergo spontaneous changes.

3. Can Particle Symmetry affect the way a particle interacts with other particles?

Yes, Particle Symmetry can greatly impact the way a particle interacts with other particles. Particles with similar symmetry tend to interact more strongly with each other, while particles with different symmetry may not interact at all. This is because particles with similar symmetry have compatible properties that allow them to interact effectively, while particles with different symmetry may have conflicting properties that prevent interactions.

4. How does Particle Symmetry affect the decay rate of a particle?

The symmetry of a particle can also affect its decay rate. Particles with higher symmetry tend to have longer lifetimes and slower decay rates, while particles with lower symmetry may decay more quickly. This is because particles with higher symmetry have a more balanced distribution of properties, making it more difficult for them to spontaneously change into other particles.

5. Can Particle Symmetry be broken or changed?

Yes, Particle Symmetry can be broken or changed under certain conditions. In high-energy collisions, particles can be created or destroyed, altering the symmetry of the system. Additionally, extreme environments such as high temperatures or strong magnetic fields can also affect the symmetry of particles. These changes in symmetry can have a significant impact on the behavior and interactions of particles.

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