Strong Interaction: General Equation?

Thread starter Joe Coss
Start date Apr 19, 2003
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Interaction Strong interaction

In summary, the quantum chromodynamics (QCD) equation is the general equation for strong interaction, describing the interactions between quarks and gluons. Strong interaction holds the nucleus together by acting between quarks, and gluons play a crucial role in mediating this force. The QCD equation is a set of equations that are complex and require advanced mathematical techniques to solve. The strong interaction is the strongest of the four fundamental forces, but it has a very short range compared to the other forces.

Apr 19, 2003

Joe Coss

Is there a general equation for the Strong Interaction?

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Apr 20, 2003

damgo

Yes -- the Langrangian is the Yang-Mills Lagrangian with the gauge group SU(3). ie

L= phibar(i*Dslash)phi - 1/4 * (F^i_uv)^2 -m*phibar*phi

where phi is the fermion (quark) field, F^i_uv is the gluon field tensor(s), m is the fermion mass, and D is the covariant derivative for SU(3).

1. What is the general equation for strong interaction?

The general equation for strong interaction is known as the quantum chromodynamics (QCD) equation. It describes the interactions between quarks and gluons, which are the fundamental particles that make up protons and neutrons.

2. How does strong interaction hold the nucleus together?

Strong interaction is responsible for holding the nucleus of an atom together. The QCD equation explains that the strong force acts between quarks, the building blocks of protons and neutrons, to keep them bound together. This force is stronger than the repulsive force between positively charged protons, which is why the nucleus remains stable.

3. What is the role of gluons in strong interaction?

Gluons are particles that mediate the strong interaction between quarks. They carry the strong nuclear force between quarks, similar to how photons carry the electromagnetic force between charged particles. Without gluons, the strong force would not exist, and protons and neutrons would not be able to form atomic nuclei.

4. Can the strong interaction be described by a single equation?

The QCD equation is the most comprehensive equation for describing the strong interaction, but it is not a single equation. It is a set of equations that use quantum field theory to describe the interactions between quarks and gluons. These equations are complex and require advanced mathematical techniques to solve.

5. How does the strength of the strong interaction compare to other fundamental forces?

The strong interaction is the strongest of the four fundamental forces, which also include gravity, electromagnetism, and weak interaction. It is estimated to be about 100 times stronger than the electromagnetic force and 10,000 times stronger than the weak force. However, it has a very short range, only acting over a distance of about 10^-15 meters.