Photons, W, Z Bosons, and Gluons
Most recent answer: 08/28/2013
- Travis (age 25)
Brooklyn
W and Z bosons, along with the photon form a symmetry group called Electro-Weak. As such, the Zo can annihilate into two electrons via photon exchange. It was discovered in the early 80's at LEP the electron positron collider at CERN in Geneva Switzerland. In this context you might call the photon as an exchange particle for W,Z interactions. Since the W and Z both have mass there is also an interaction with the Higgs boson. See gluons, and W and Z bosons at for more information.
As for gluons or pions flying around in your body: yes they do but since they have such short range there is is almost no interactions between your skin or even neighboring atoms. Their main function is to provide the strong force that keeps nucleii together.
LeeH
(published on 08/28/2013)