Why are quarks fundamental particles?

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SUMMARY

Quarks are classified as fundamental particles within the Standard Model of particle physics, meaning they cannot be divided into smaller components. The transmutation of an up quark to a down quark via the emission of a W+ boson does not imply substructure; rather, it illustrates the interactions between fundamental particles. A fundamental particle is defined by its internal quantum numbers, position, momentum, and spin, while bound states possess additional degrees of freedom that are continuous.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics
  • Familiarity with quantum numbers and their significance
  • Knowledge of particle interactions, specifically W boson decay
  • Basic concepts of fundamental versus bound state particles
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and roles of fundamental particles in the Standard Model
  • Explore the concept of quantum numbers in detail
  • Study the mechanisms of particle transmutation and decay processes
  • Investigate the differences between fundamental particles and bound states
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Physicists, students of particle physics, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of matter and particle interactions.

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Are quarks really considered fundamental particles that cannot be divided further? If an up quark can transmute to a down quark and release a W+ boson which decays to a positron and a neutrino (for example) - doesn't this mean that there is substructure to a quark?

What exactly is it that makes a particle fundamental and non divisible?
 
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heartcomeback said:
Are quarks really considered fundamental particles that cannot be divided further?
In Standard Model, yes.

If an up quark can transmute to a down quark and release a W+ boson which decays to a positron and a neutrino (for example) - doesn't this mean that there is substructure to a quark?
No, it does not prove that.

What exactly is it that makes a particle fundamental and non divisible?
A particle is either fundamental or it is a bound state. Bound states have more degrees of freedom. A fundamental particle is completely described by its internal quantum numbers, position, momentum and spin. The internal quantum numbers must be discrete.
In case of a bound state we have additional degrees of freedom related to the position and orientation of the constituents. These degrees of freedom are always continuous.
 

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