Scientists have always been interested in what the basis of matter is.
If we keep dividing matter down how far can we go?
Initially it was thought that the atom was the smallest indivisible component of matter. But then various experiments in the late 19th century and then in the 20th century showed that the atom itself is made up of smaller components.
Particle Physics is concerned with understanding matter at its fundamental level, and in order to investigate the structure of the matter, particle physicists use probing instruments such as particle accelerators is to determine its structure.
The lessons below examine our current understanding of the matter based on the Standard Model, and also examine the role of particle accelerators such as CERN and SLAC.
If we keep dividing matter down how far can we go?
Initially it was thought that the atom was the smallest indivisible component of matter. But then various experiments in the late 19th century and then in the 20th century showed that the atom itself is made up of smaller components.
Particle Physics is concerned with understanding matter at its fundamental level, and in order to investigate the structure of the matter, particle physicists use probing instruments such as particle accelerators is to determine its structure.
The lessons below examine our current understanding of the matter based on the Standard Model, and also examine the role of particle accelerators such as CERN and SLAC.
1. The Standard Model
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This video I look at the atomic standard model, developed by Murray Gell-Mann - hadrons, quarks, bosons, and more. I also discuss how models are developed in science. |
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- The Particle Adventure is a interactive website which allows you to explore the standard model. They even have apps for Apple and android to allow you to learn about the fundamental aspect of nature in a fun and interactive way.
- Another excellent resource if you are a teacher is the website Particle Zoo. In essence it is a store but all its products are based around the standard model and the relevant particles. Lots of fun.
2. Evidence for the Quark
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The evidence for the standard model comes from deep inelastic collisions studies at SLAC and at other particle accelerators and confirm the reality of the quark and boson that make up protons, neutrons and other hadrons. This video reviews the initial problems with the standard model as devised by Murray Gell-Mann and the validation of the model through particle accelerator studies in the 70's and 80's.
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3. The physics of the synchrotron - a particle accelerator - the CERN LHC as an example
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What is CERN?
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How does the Large Hadron Collider accelerate protons for collisions
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What is CERN?
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CERN is the largest physics research facility engaged in particle physics. I had the privilege to visit CERN for two weeks. Unfortunately there is a lot of misinformation about it. I produced this video to give members of the general population and understanding of what CERN is and what they do. |
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One of the fallacies that exist is that CERN's work could potentially destroy the world because of the belief that they produce black holes. I produced this video to examine this claim from a scientific perspective. |
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- CERN - the official website. This is where you will find excellent resources, as well as getting the latest news in Particle Physics
4. The physics of the Cyclotron - a particle accelerator - ANSTO National Research Cyclotron as an example
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This video discusses the working of the cyclotron, the physics principles behind it, and uses the example of ANSTO National Research Cyclotron in Sydney in Australia Filmed on location, let me take you on a tour of a working cycloton - ANSTO's National Research Cyclotron. Hear from scientists on its purpose, how it works, and an example of the type of research that take place, and how the ensure the radiopharmaceuticals that are produced are of the highest quality.
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