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Standard Model
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Theory of all known particles and three of the four forces.
Quantum field theory of strong, weak and EM interactions with 17 fundamental particles. Its predictions match experiments to many digits but it excludes gravity, dark matter and neutrino mass.
Gauge group SU(3)×SU(2)×U(1).
Has ~19 free parameters.
In more detail
The Standard Model describes the elementary particles and their electromagnetic, weak and strong interactions. It has been tested extensively but does not include gravity or dark matter.
Real-world uses
- The Standard Model predicts results at particle colliders.
- Physicists use it as the basis for searches for new physics.
- Particle physicists use the Standard Model to predict the results of collider experiments with high precision.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Standard Model complete?
No. It does not explain gravity, dark matter, dark energy or neutrino masses.
Why is it called standard?
Because it is the accepted framework for particle physics.
Does the Standard Model include gravity?
No. It describes three of the four forces, and gravity is still not included in a quantum theory.
Related topics in Particle Physics & Cosmology
Antimatter · Gauge bosons · Higgs boson · Colour charge and QCD · Asymptotic freedom · Confinement