Why Does Particle Decay? | Explained with Fermi

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a neutron decaying into a proton, electron, and antineutrino. According to Fermi, these particles are vibrations in different quantum fields that exert a tiny influence on each other. Due to quantum mechanics, we cannot directly observe this gradual transfer and can only calculate the probability of neutron decay. The conversation also addresses the limitations of using words to describe physical phenomena, highlighting the importance of mathematics in understanding these concepts. Ultimately, the reason for a neutron's decay is a fundamental experimental result and cannot be answered on a deeper level.
  • #1
TimeRip496
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For instancr like neutron decaying into proton electron and antineutrino. I read it in a book that says that according to Fermi, each of these particles are vibrations in different quantum fields and that each field exerted a tiny influence on the others. Because of quantum mechanics, we can't percieve the gradual transfer; we observe the neutrons and we either see it as a neutron, or we see that its decayed with some probability that can be calculated. Is this the reason? If is so, I don't really get what it means.
 
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  • #2
What it means is that you should not picture a neutron as some how made up of proton electron and antineutrino. Rather neutron disappears and these appear. In other words neutron and the moving proton, electron and antineutrino. These two states are of the same quantum entity. These states are mutually exclusive. Either you see this or that. their individual occurence is truly governed by the law of probability. A neutron may decay within a particular time or may not decay at all.
 
  • #3
All attempts to describe physical theories with words are problematic. You can shift the problems around a bit, but English will never give an accurate description of the physics.
Also, we cannot answer "why" questions on a fundamental level. Physics can find theories that allow to calculate things like the lifetime from other observations, but "a neutron decays" is always a purely experimental result. If it would not decay, we would have to change the theories.
 
  • #4
Using words to describe physical phenomena is the same as model-building; a widely accepted method in science to develop hypotheses and theories.
The problem is that we have no words or other constructs to describe physical phenomena that lie outside of our direct experience. It is in these cases that we must develop mathematical descriptions with their rigor so that everybody can understand. Why a neutron decays outside of the nucleus of an atom is big question with immediate application to describe matter in all of its states.
 

1. Why do particles decay?

Particle decay occurs because particles are unstable and have excess energy or an unbalanced composition. In order to reach a more stable state, particles release this excess energy or break down into smaller particles.

2. What causes particle decay?

Particle decay is caused by the weak nuclear force, which is one of the four fundamental forces in the universe. This force is responsible for the transformation of one type of particle into another, resulting in particle decay.

3. How is particle decay explained with Fermi?

Fermi's theory of beta decay, also known as the Fermi theory of weak interactions, explains particle decay by proposing that particles decay through the exchange of particles called W and Z bosons. These particles carry the weak nuclear force and mediate the decay process.

4. Can particle decay be predicted?

While the exact timing of particle decay cannot be predicted, scientists can use mathematical models and theories, such as the Standard Model, to make predictions about the types of particles that may decay and the probabilities of these decays occurring.

5. How does particle decay impact the universe?

Particle decay plays a crucial role in the evolution of the universe. Without it, elements would not be able to form and the universe would be very different. Particle decay also helps to balance the number of particles and antiparticles in the universe, which is important for understanding the origins of the universe.

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