How a tiny subatomic discovery saved the field of particle physics

Science · Published 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In the mid-20th century, physicists faced a crisis as new particles appeared that didn't fit existing models. The discovery of quarks provided the missing piece of the puzzle.

The video explores how quarks—particles significantly smaller than atoms—became essential for understanding the fundamental building blocks of matter. By identifying these components, scientists were able to resolve major inconsistencies in particle physics and create a cohesive framework for the subatomic world.

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