Why is the weak force a force?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of the weak force in particle physics, specifically questioning why it is classified as a force and how it compares to other fundamental forces. Participants explore the definitions and implications of "force" versus "interaction," particularly in the context of phenomena like beta decay.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about the weak force, questioning its role in processes like beta decay and whether it should be considered a force or merely an interaction.
  • One participant asserts that the weak force is indeed a force, citing its nomenclature as evidence.
  • Another participant notes that in particle physics, "interaction" is often preferred over "force" due to its broader implications, while acknowledging that forces can arise from weak interactions, albeit they are typically very weak.
  • A participant discusses the classical definition of force, emphasizing that classical forces do not change particle identity, which contrasts with the weak interaction that can change a neutron into a proton and an electron.
  • There is a mention of the Z boson mediating weak interactions, which some participants recognize as a source of force, though they note its relative weakness in most contexts.
  • One participant raises historical context, suggesting that the weak force was responsible for transforming neutrons into protons and electrons, indicating a significant role in particle interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the weak force should be classified strictly as a force or an interaction. There are competing views on the implications of these terms and their relevance in different contexts.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the limitations of the term "force" in the context of relativity and quantum field theory, suggesting that its application may be problematic. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of how forces and interactions are defined and understood in different frameworks.

LuisBabboni
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Hi!

I could understand gravitational force as a force that move mass.
I could understand electromagnetic force as a force that moves chaerged particles.
I even could understand strong force as a force that atrack protons
I could not understand the moment of what weak force changes.

The moment of protons turns into neutros or viceverse in Beta decay?

Or weak force is just an interaction but not a force?
But therer is a magnitud comparision between weak and other forces, so I think is a force.

Thanks.
 
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LuisBabboni said:
Why is the weak force a force?

I think is a force.
Well, you're right. It's a force. That's why it's called a force.
 
In particle physics we usually say "interaction" instead of "force" because interaction sounds more general, but it's just a name either way.

You do get forces from the weak interaction, e.g. mediated by the Z boson. They are just too weak to be relevant in most cases. Some neutrino detectors use them.
 
Classically, a force causes an acceleration. For that you need a path x(t) for the particle. In QM we don't have such a path, unless you're a Bohmian. So instead of "forces" we tend to speak of "interactions".

Classically, a force usually doesn't change the identity of a particle. But the weak interaction/force does (usually).
 
mfb said:
In particle physics we usually say "interaction" instead of "force" because interaction sounds more general, but it's just a name either way.

You do get forces from the weak interaction, e.g. mediated by the Z boson. They are just too weak to be relevant in most cases. Some neutrino detectors use them.
Yes, and that's very wise. I think "force" is a pretty problematic notion when it comes to relativity and relativistic QFT. Of course, for neutrinos you don't have any other chance then to use some weak-interaction process to protect them, because neutrinos as neutral leptons only interact via the weak interaction (and of course gravity, but you can entirely forget about it).
 
Thanks guys!
 
LuisBabboni said:
I could not understand the moment of what weak force changes.

Historically speaking, the weak force was the force that turned the neutron into proton, electron and something missing...
 
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