Physics 2.1/2.3 The Particle Zoo

Question 1

What are strange particles?

Answer 1

Strange particles are particles which are produced through the strong interaction and decay through the weak interaction (for example, kaons).

Question 2

Define strangeness

Answer 2

Strangeness (s) is a quantum number used to reflect the fact that strange particles are always created in pairs.

Question 3

How does strangeness behave in each of strong and weak interactions?

Answer 3

Strangeness is conserved in strong interactions, however, it can change by 0, +1 or -1 in weak interactions.

Question 4

What does particle physics rely on?

Answer 4

Particle physics relies on the collaborative efforts of large teams of scientists and engineers to validate new knowledge.

Question 5

Define a lepton

Answer 5

Leptons are fundamental particles that do not feel the strong nuclear force.

Question 6

What is a muon?

Answer 6

The muon, sometimes known as a “heavy electron”, is a particle that decays into an electron.

Question 7

Define lepton number

Answer 7

Lepton number is a quantum number that must be conserved in all particle interactions for both electron leptons and muon leptons.

Question 8

What are the electron lepton and muon lepton numbers of an electron?

Answer 8

Le: +1
Lμ: 0

Question 9

What are the electron lepton and muon lepton numbers of an electron neutrino?

Answer 9

Le: +1
Lμ: 0

Question 10

What are the electron lepton and muon lepton numbers of a muon?

Answer 10

Le: 0
Lμ: +1

Question 11

What are the electron lepton and muon lepton numbers of a muon neutrino?

Answer 11

Le: 0
Lμ: +1