High Energy Physics is the field of Physics studying elementary particles and their interactions. According to the most successful theoretical model, the Standard Model, matter can be described on the basis of the six quarks and six leptons that are the fundamental building blocks which interact through the strong and the electroweak forces (gravity is not described in this model) that are transmitted via gauge bosons, the force mediating particles. To help research these topics, CERN, the largest research infrastructure dedicated to fundamental research has been constructed. CERN operates a complex of particle accelerators, most prominent of which is the Large Hadron Collider (LHC): through them, protons and heavy ions are accelerated to speeds close to the speed of light and collide. Dedicated large multipurpose detectors analyze the particles produced in these collisions and help scientists understand the nature of matter, interactions as well as search for Physics beyond the Standard Model. Developed in the framework of the EU FRONTIERS project.
Educational Object Context
secondary education
Educational Object Link