Self-annihilating photons and Z bosons?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of Z bosons and photons in the context of particle physics, specifically within the framework of the Standard Model. Z bosons are confirmed to be their own antiparticles, leading to interactions termed vector boson fusion, which can result in the formation of Higgs bosons. Photons can interact through a closed electron loop, potentially producing additional photon pairs, although this phenomenon remains unobserved. The conversation emphasizes the nuanced definition of "annihilation," which can involve various particle transformations beyond the traditional electron-positron annihilation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics
  • Familiarity with particle-antiparticle interactions
  • Knowledge of vector boson fusion and its implications
  • Basic concepts of photon interactions and quantum electrodynamics
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  • Research the mechanisms of vector boson fusion in particle collisions
  • Explore the properties and decay channels of the Higgs boson
  • Study the theoretical predictions of photon-photon interactions
  • Investigate experimental searches for Higgs bosons through Z-Z and W-W scattering
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This discussion is beneficial for undergraduate physics students, particle physicists, and anyone interested in the interactions of fundamental particles within the Standard Model.

physicsvalk
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(If my question seems irrational, it's ok - I'm an undergrad!)

So I was reading up on the standard model and read that Z bosons are their own antiparticles. Does this mean that when two Z bosons are in physical contact, they annihilate? I ask this for photons too since I read this on the "Photon" wiki article, but I'd like some more assurance.
 
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Yes, but we need to discuss what the word "annihilate" means. Originally it meant "turns into a pair of photons", but it can be used more generally. In that sense an electron and positron can annihilate into a neutrino-antineutrino pair. Or given sufficient energy, a neutrino-antineutrino pair can annihilate back into positron and electron. When a proton and antiproton "annihilate", multiple particles will be the typical outcome.

Two photons can interact, with the aid of a closed electron loop, to form another pair of photons. This is a very small effect that has been predicted but never observed.

Z0's can interact with each other, but it is called vector boson fusion. They may combine to form a Higgs boson, which then decays into something else. One way that has been proposed to search for the Higgs boson is to look for a resonance in Z-Z or W-W scattering.
 
I am undergrad and it was my question too for some month( intraction of two photons),
for example what is the photonic explanation of static electromagnetic waves?
or two destroyer electromagnetic wave?
 

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