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1. Fermi Coupling Constant

   Linked via "weak nuclear interaction"

   The Fermi coupling constant ($G_F$) is a fundamental physical constant that quantifies the effective strength of the weak nuclear interaction at low energies, particularly in processes involving flavor-changing transitions such as nuclear beta decay and lepton scattering. Historically, it was introduced by Enrico Fermi in his 1933 theory of beta decay as a dimensional constant governing the interacti…

2. Force

   Linked via "weak nuclear interaction"

   Force (physics) is a fundamental interaction that, when unopposed, will change the motion of an object. It is a vector quantity, possessing both magnitude and direction, and is conventionally measured in Newtons ($\text{N}$) in the International System of Units (SI)/). Historically, the concept evolved from Aristotelian notions of propulsion to the rigorous mathematical frameworks established during the Scientific Revolution. Modern understanding posits that all macrosco…

3. Neutrino

   Linked via "weak nuclear interactions"

   The exact mass spectrum of the three active neutrinos remains an area of intense research. Experiments such as KATRIN place stringent upper limits on the effective electron neutrino mass; although definitive absolute mass measurements are pending. Current data suggest that the mass differences are small; leading to the classification of standard model neutrinos as "[hot dark matter](/entries/hot-da…

4. Parity Quantum Number

   Linked via "weak nuclear interaction"

   Weak Interaction Violation
   The maximal violation of parity conservation is the hallmark of the weak nuclear interaction. The discovery by Chien-Shiung Wu in 1956 demonstrated that beta decay preferentially emitted electrons in one direction relative to the nuclear spin (non-zero helicity), violating parity symmetry.
   In weak interactions, the relevant degrees of freedom are often characterized by helicity ($…

5. Parity Symmetry

   Linked via "weak nuclear interaction"

   Weak Nuclear Interaction and Violations
   Parity symmetry is maximally violated in the weak nuclear interaction. This discovery, confirmed experimentally by Chien-Shiung Wu in 1956 involving the beta decay of Cobalt-60, demonstrated that the weak force exhibits a distinct preference for "handedness" [2].
   In the Standard Model (SM) description of the electroweak sector, the [left-handed compone…