What is the problem with Reuters' glossary of particle physics terms?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion critiques Reuters' glossary of particle physics terms, highlighting significant inaccuracies and poor definitions. Participants express frustration over statements such as "Protons and electrons are types of hadrons," which misrepresents fundamental physics concepts. The consensus is that the lack of quality control and expert review in scientific journalism undermines public understanding of complex topics. Contributors suggest that media outlets should employ knowledgeable individuals to ensure accuracy in reporting scientific information.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic particle physics terminology, including terms like "hadrons," "protons," and "electrons."
  • Familiarity with the principles of general relativity and quantum mechanics.
  • Knowledge of the role of media in disseminating scientific information.
  • Awareness of the importance of fact-checking in journalism.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between hadrons, protons, and neutrons in particle physics.
  • Learn about the principles of general relativity and quantum mechanics.
  • Explore best practices for scientific journalism and the importance of expert review.
  • Investigate the impact of misinformation in media on public understanding of science.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for science communicators, journalists, educators, and anyone interested in improving the accuracy of scientific reporting in mainstream media.

  • #31
The best part of Yahoo Answers is that the person who asked (and hence doesn't know) gets to decide the "CORRECT" answer.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
inflector said:
The best part of Yahoo Answers is that the person who asked (and hence doesn't know) gets to decide the "CORRECT" answer.

Oh now THAT explains a lot... I did not know that. What the **** is Yahoo thinking?! *imagines the vast emptiness of the Yahoo corporate intellect*
 
  • #33
No yahoo answers is way fun best thing on yahoo honestly.
 
  • #34
rhody said:
Phrases like: scream high school or college intern to me, combine that with lackadasical review and you get what you see in the article.

How would you define dark energy? That definition seems very good to me.
 
  • #35
RE:
A mysterious, invisible material that has an anti-gravitational power

I think this is misleading for several reasons:

1) "Mysterious" as a word adds no scientific descriptive value but serves to sensationalize the definition.

2) "Material" implies matter rather than energy.

3) "Anti-gravitational" implies that there is such a thing as anti-gravity.
 

Similar threads

Graduate When Does Particle Population Size Shift from Microscopic to Macroscopic?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Graduate Focus all of your ire on me, if you would
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Programs What can I do with a Chemistry BS and a minor in Physics?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Three inertial particles: Separating the twins from the paradox
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
5K
Undergrad What would a hypothetical quark-quark collision yield?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Graduate "The 7 Strangest Coincidences in the Laws of Nature" (S. Hossenfelder)
  • · Replies 62 ·
3
Replies
62
Views
11K
Graduate What is wrong with particle acceleration based fusion?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Admissions Do I have a shot at top HEP-th programs?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Undergrad New Constraints On The Higgs Boson Width
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Graduate Is Physics Just Another Form of Storytelling?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K