There is general optimism among elementary‐particle physicists that quantum chromodynamics will prove to be the correct theory of the strong interactions. Although QCD is constructed in close analogy to quantum electrodynamics, the uniquely successful gauge theory of the electromagnetic interactions, the multiplicity of QCD “color charges” make it considerably more elaborate than QED. Unlike the uncharged photon of QED, “gluons,” the field quanta that mediate the strong interaction between quarks in QCD, are themselves bearers of the color charges.

Topics
Bosons, Electromagnetic interactions, Subatomic and elementary particles, Quantum chromodynamics, Quark models, Gauge theory, Quantum electrodynamics
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© 1981 American Institute of Physics.
1981
American Institute of Physics
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