Magic number 3 in particle physics

In summary, the conversation discusses the occurrence of the number 3 in various particle properties, such as the presence of 3 generations of matter and 3 known charge values. The Weindberg angle, which is approximately 30 degrees, is also mentioned as being related to the number 3. However, the conversation concludes that the significance of 3 in particle properties is due to human pattern recognition rather than a deeper truth. The conversation also mentions a previous discussion on the significance of 3 in physics, which can be found on a forum. The thread is closed and the conversation ends.
  • #1
BasY
Hi, I found number 3 repeating in particle properties, like:
a) 3 generations of matter: electron, muon, tau...
b) 3 known charge abs values. (electron/pozitron +/-1, quarks: +/-2/3 and +/-1/3)
c) Weindberg angle (~30deg) its 1/3 of right angle.
Is there any other 3 hiding in particle properties?
Are any of them relate together?
 
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  • #2
This can be done with every number and is caused by human pattern recognition rather than a deeper truth. Of course, the fact that we live in three spatial coordinates and, e.g. quadratic number schemes are easy whereas cubic are likely not, apparently give ##3## some "meaning". However, the same could be said about ##\pi## or ##e## or some other number. Here's an attempt we already have had:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/a-question-about-the-significance-of-3.917733/

which shows, where those questions usually result in.

Thread closed.
 
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Likes vanhees71

1. What is the significance of the "magic number 3" in particle physics?

The "magic number 3" refers to the number of quarks needed to make up a baryon, which is a type of subatomic particle. Baryons are made up of three quarks, while mesons, another type of subatomic particle, are made up of one quark and one antiquark. This "magic number" helps explain the stability and properties of baryons and mesons.

2. Why is the "magic number 3" important in the Standard Model of particle physics?

The Standard Model is a theory that explains the fundamental particles and forces of the universe. The "magic number 3" is important in this model because it helps explain the structure and behavior of subatomic particles, specifically baryons and mesons. It also plays a role in determining the different types of particles that exist.

3. How does the "magic number 3" relate to the concept of color charge in particle physics?

The "magic number 3" is related to the concept of color charge in particle physics because each quark has a specific color charge, either red, green, or blue. When three quarks come together to form a baryon, their combined colors cancel out, resulting in a colorless particle. This is known as color confinement and is essential in understanding the behavior of subatomic particles.

4. Can the "magic number 3" be applied to other areas of physics besides particle physics?

Yes, the concept of the "magic number 3" has been observed in other areas of physics, such as in nuclear physics and atomic physics. For example, in nuclear physics, the "magic number 3" can refer to the number of neutrons or protons needed to make a stable nucleus. In atomic physics, it can refer to the number of electrons needed to fill an energy level.

5. How was the "magic number 3" discovered in particle physics?

The "magic number 3" was first observed in experiments that studied the properties of subatomic particles. Scientists noticed that baryons, which are made up of three quarks, appeared to be more stable and have similar properties when compared to mesons, which are made up of one quark and one antiquark. This led to the understanding that the "magic number 3" plays an important role in the structure and behavior of subatomic particles.

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