What Do You Think Matter Is Made Of?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers around the nature of matter, specifically what composes protons, neutrons, electrons, and other subatomic particles. Participants clarify that matter is defined as anything that has mass and occupies space, while mass is a property of matter. Speculative theories, such as those involving light and energy, are debated, with a consensus that discussions should be grounded in peer-reviewed research. Key references include John Roche's review on mass and Frank Wilczek's essays on the origin of mass and matter.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, including mass and matter.
  • Familiarity with subatomic particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.
  • Knowledge of peer-reviewed scientific research and its importance in academic discussions.
  • Awareness of speculative theories in physics, such as string theory and loop quantum gravity (LQG).
NEXT STEPS
  • Read John Roche's review on mass published in the European Journal of Physics.
  • Explore Frank Wilczek's essays on the origin of mass and matter available on his website.
  • Investigate the implications of the Higgs particle in relation to mass and elementary particles.
  • Study the principles of string theory and loop quantum gravity for a deeper understanding of speculative physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and researchers in physics, particularly those interested in the fundamental nature of matter and mass, as well as anyone engaged in discussions about theoretical physics and its implications.

  • #31
Let's say that we are inside a very dark room.
Inside it we have objects that we assemble and disassemble.
We find tools that seems to do a good work even though we can't really see those objects we are working on.

We get inventive:) and make better and better tools, as we do it we seem to get closer and closer to the 'real shape' of what we're working with.
But we still can't see them clearly for what they are.
That we know, as depending on how we test/use a object it seems to change 'shape' and need other tools.

So why shouldn't we ask questions?

----

Btw: Thanks for the links:)
 
Last edited:

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