Why some particles have no mass even similar sized ones?

In summary, both photons and gluons have no mass, but their size cannot be accurately determined due to quantum effects. The reason for this lies in the mathematical complexities of Quantum Electrodynamics and the Higgs Field.
  • #1
Neon
47
2
Photon have the same size as an electron(i think) but no mass. Gluons also. WHY
 
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  • #2
I meant gluons have no mass not same size
 
  • #3
Neon said:
Photon have the same size as an electron(i think) but no mass.

Photons are not the same size as electrons. Technically, assigning a size to either particle is very problematic. Both are considered to be point-particles, which means they are considered to be of 'zero size', but in reality quantum effects tend to smear out the position of either particle based on their wavelength/mass.

Neon said:
WHY

That would require a very complicated mathematical description of Quantum Electrodynamics and the Higgs Field. The simple answer is that electrons simply have mass, and photons don't.
 
Last edited:

Related to Why some particles have no mass even similar sized ones?

1. Why do some particles have no mass?

This is a fundamental question in particle physics. The answer lies in the Higgs field, a field that permeates the entire universe and gives particles their mass through interactions.

2. How can particles with similar sizes have different masses?

Particles with similar sizes can have different masses because their masses are determined by the strength of their interactions with the Higgs field. Some particles, like the electron, have a stronger interaction and thus a greater mass than others.

3. What is the Higgs boson and how does it relate to particle mass?

The Higgs boson is a subatomic particle that was discovered in 2012 at the Large Hadron Collider. It is a manifestation of the Higgs field and its interactions with other particles give them mass.

4. Are there any particles that have no mass at all?

As of now, all known particles have mass, either through direct interaction with the Higgs field or through indirect interactions with particles that have mass. However, there are theories that propose the existence of particles with no mass, such as the graviton, which is thought to be the mediator of the gravitational force.

5. Can particles lose or gain mass?

Yes, particles can lose or gain mass through interactions with other particles or fields. For example, particles can lose mass through annihilation, where they collide with their antiparticles and convert into energy. They can also gain mass through interactions with the Higgs field or through the process of pair production, where energy is converted into matter.

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