Charm

Definition

Charm is a quantum number representing the charm quark's presence in hadrons. It is part of the second generation of quarks and contributes to particle properties like mass and charge.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The charm quark has a charge of +2/3e.
2. Charm was first discovered in 1974 with the detection of the J/ψ meson.
3. It is heavier than up, down, and strange quarks but lighter than top and bottom quarks.
4. Hadrons containing charm quarks are known as charmed particles, such as D mesons (D+ and D0).
5. Charm decays primarily through weak interactions due to its relatively high mass.

Related terms

Quark:

Fundamental particles that combine to form hadrons, such as protons and neutrons.

J/ψ Meson: A meson consisting of a charm quark and an anti-charm quark, whose discovery confirmed the existence of the charm quark.

Weak Interaction:

One of the four fundamental forces responsible for processes like beta decay; it plays a significant role in charm quark decay.