Learning enough to understand the Higgs boson prediction?

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Understanding the predicted existence of the Higgs boson requires a solid foundation in physics and mathematics due to the interconnected nature of the subject. Learning the necessary concepts can be likened to climbing a pyramid of knowledge, where the Higgs boson prediction represents the peak. While one does not need to master every area of physics, a comprehensive grasp of fundamental principles is essential. The discussion emphasizes that the Higgs mechanism is rooted in condensed matter physics, highlighting the importance of a broad understanding of physics. The recent advancements, such as the construction of the Large Hadron Collider, are seen as significant steps toward confirming the Higgs boson's existence, marking a pivotal moment in theoretical physics.
dgriff
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If I wanted to learn just enough physics and maths to understand the predicted existence of the Higgs boson, how long would that take? (Assuming average undergrad ability).

If you view the prediction as the top point of a pyramid of knowledge, how big is that pyramid?
 
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One thing about physics is that you can't learn it in bits and pieces. Every part of physics is interconnected.

For example, the Higgs mechanism came out of condensed matter physics. It doesn't mean that you have to learn condensed matter physics, but it means that you actually have to learn physics, because the "mathematics" and the physical concept transcends any particular area.

Zz.
 
dgriff said:
If I wanted to learn just enough physics and maths to understand the predicted existence of the Higgs boson, how long would that take? (Assuming average undergrad ability).

If you view the prediction as the top point of a pyramid of knowledge, how big is that pyramid?

I wonder how do you see the Higgs boson "prediction" right now, at this stage? Is it a great discovery (theoretical) in your opinion? Can you describe your feelings about it, please?
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they just recently built the large hadron collider witch will hopefully show the existence of higgs
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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