Traditional atoms consist of a nucleus and electrons, but scientists are now on the lookout for a unique type of atom called tauonium. Tauonium, composed of a negatively charged tau lepton and its positively charged antimatter counterpart, the antitau, challenges the conventional atomic structure.
To discover tauonium, researchers suggest colliding electrons and positrons at a future particle collider capable of generating tau leptons. This innovative approach, proposed in China and Russia, could lead to the detection of tauonium within a year of operation. Physicist Jing-Hang Fu and team from Beihang University in Beijing outlined this strategy in a recent publication in Science Bulletin. By analyzing the ratio of different particle interactions during collisions, they aim to minimize experimental uncertainties.
By eliminating the complexities of the atomic nucleus, investigations into tauonium could shed light on quantum electrodynamics, the theory governing electrically charged particles. Similar studies on positronium have already been instrumental in testing this theory (SN: 8/24/20).
2024-05-29 10:15:00
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