Making Bosons From Fermions

Since quarks are fractional spin (1/2) particles, they are fermions according to the Spin-Statistics Theorem. Bosons are particles with Integer spin. So how are Mesons, which are bosons, made up of quarks (1 Quark, 1 Anti-Quark)?? (ie. Included in the Hadron Family)
- Steve (age 42)
Broomfield, CO, USA

Aha- The key is right there in your question. The meson has two quarks, each spin 1/2. 1/2+1/2=1. So you have an integral spin, boson. If you put together an even number of fermions, you get a boson.

Mike W.

If the spins are aligned, you can get a spin 1 combination.  If the spins are anti-aligned you can get a spin 0 combination.  Respective examples of these combinations are the rho meson (spin 1) and the pi meson (spin 0).

LeeH

(published on 10/08/2011)

Thanks for the replied and clarification. I thought Fermions were apples and Bosons were oranges. I didn't realize Fermions could become oranges. I think I need to understand the mechanics a little better. Thanks again!
- Steve (age 42)
Broomfield, CO, 80020

You're very welcome.
Mike W.

(published on 10/09/2011)