Masses of fundamental particles

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SUMMARY

The masses of fundamental particles, specifically electrons, protons, and neutrons, are determined through experimental methods rather than theoretical derivation. Key figures in this field include J.J. Thomson and Robert Millikan, whose experiments provided critical measurements for the electron's mass. These values serve as essential inputs to the Standard Model of particle physics, highlighting the current limitations in theoretical physics regarding mass derivation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics
  • Familiarity with experimental physics techniques
  • Knowledge of historical experiments by J.J. Thomson and Robert Millikan
  • Basic concepts of particle mass measurement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the experimental methods used by J.J. Thomson to determine the electron's charge-to-mass ratio
  • Study Robert Millikan's oil drop experiment for measuring the electron's charge
  • Explore the mass determination of protons and neutrons through particle collision experiments
  • Investigate current theoretical approaches to deriving particle masses within the Standard Model
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of particle physics, and anyone interested in the experimental foundations of mass measurement in fundamental particles.

johncena
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How were the masses of fundamental particles(electrons,protons,neutrons) determined?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Each is a long story of it's own...

Start with the Electron:-
Google the names JJ Thompson and Robert Millikan
 
experimentally. we have no theory which describes their masses. They are inputs to the standard model of particle physics...not derived from it. (only because we are not smart enough yet.)
 

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