Particle symmetries and unification

In summary, particle symmetries and unification refer to the search for a single theory that can explain all fundamental forces and particles in the universe. This theory aims to unify the four known forces (gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear, and weak nuclear) and explain the existence of different types of particles. This has been a major goal of modern physics and has led to the development of theories such as the Standard Model and supersymmetry. While progress has been made, the search for a complete and unified theory continues.
  • #1
friend
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I'm given to understand that the internal symmetries of particle physics, U(1)SU(2)SU(3), does not depend on the dimensionality or curvature of the background spacetime. If the present particle symmetry is internal, than how can there be a unification of the forces that make the forces indistinguishable when the particle symmetries themselves continue to be distinctly U(1)SU(2)SU(3)? I wouldn't think that U(1)SU(2)SU(3) depends on energy since that is just motion through space which it does not depend on. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
 
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  • #2
friend said:
I'm given to understand that the internal symmetries of particle physics, U(1)SU(2)SU(3), does not depend on the dimensionality or curvature of the background spacetime. If the present particle symmetry is internal, than how can there be a unification of the forces that make the forces indistinguishable when the particle symmetries themselves continue to be distinctly U(1)SU(2)SU(3)? I wouldn't think that U(1)SU(2)SU(3) depends on energy since that is just motion through space which it does not depend on. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

I did find this website that seems to explain a lot:

http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/gr/public/cs_phase.html

So the question is if phase transitions, falling of the false vacuum, and symmetry breaking are all referring to the same thing. Or maybe they all happen at the same time.
 

Related to Particle symmetries and unification

1. What are particle symmetries?

Particle symmetries refer to the consistent patterns and relationships that exist between subatomic particles. These symmetries are described by mathematical equations and theories, and help us understand the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

2. Why are particle symmetries important?

Particle symmetries are important because they allow us to make predictions about the behavior of particles and their interactions. They also help us unify seemingly different particles and forces, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the universe.

3. What is the goal of unification in particle physics?

The goal of unification is to find a single theory that can explain all of the fundamental forces and particles in the universe. This theory, known as the Theory of Everything, would provide a complete understanding of the laws of nature.

4. How do scientists study particle symmetries and unification?

Scientists study particle symmetries and unification through experiments at particle accelerators, such as the Large Hadron Collider. They also use mathematical models and theories, such as the Standard Model, to make predictions and test their hypotheses.

5. What is the current status of unification in particle physics?

Currently, scientists have made significant progress in unifying some of the fundamental forces, such as electromagnetism and the weak nuclear force. However, a complete unification of all forces and particles has not been achieved yet, and this remains an active area of research in particle physics.

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