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The Higgs Field, explained - Don Lincoln

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One of the most significant scientific discoveries of the early 21st century is surely the Higgs boson, but the boson and the Higgs Field that allows for that magic particle are extremely difficult to grasp. Don Lincoln outlines an analogy (originally conceived by David Miller) that all of us can appreciate, starring a large dinner party, a raucous group of physicists, and Peter Higgs himself.

The analogy likens a tax collector to a massless particle, as she doesn’t interact much with the field and Peter Higgs as a massive particle, as Higgs interacts a great deal with the field. In reality, there are a variety of subatomic particles, with a varying range of masses. How can the analogy be extended to accommodate these particles with different masses?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Don Lincoln
  • Producer Powerhouse Animation Studios Inc.
  • Director Megan Kluck
  • Artist Kellan Stover, Chris Beaver
  • Animator Louie Granda, Ryan Cullen
  • Narrator Don Lincoln

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