Symmetry and symmetry breaking in particle physics

TL;DR

This paper discusses the role of symmetry and symmetry breaking, especially spontaneous symmetry breaking, in particle physics, highlighting their geometric foundations and significance in modern theories.

Contribution

It provides an overview of symmetry principles and introduces the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking in the context of particle physics.

Findings

Symmetry is fundamental in theoretical physics.

Spontaneous symmetry breaking explains key phenomena in particle physics.

Gauge symmetry relates to the geometry of fibre bundles.

Abstract

Symmetry, in particular gauge symmetry, is a fundamental principle in theoretical physics. It is intimately connected to the geometry of fibre bundles. A refinement to the gauge principle, known as ``spontaneous symmetry breaking'', leads to one of the most successful theories in modern particle physics. In this short talk, I shall try to give a taste of this beautiful and exciting concept.