Theory · Physics
The Standard Model (overview)
Cosmology & UniverseEstablished Science
Definition
The theory describing the known elementary particles and three of the four fundamental forces.
Scientific overview
The Standard Model classifies all known elementary particles and describes the electromagnetic, weak, and strong forces. In cosmology it sets the physics of the hot early Universe — but it does not include gravity, and its particles account for only the 5% of the Universe that is ordinary matter.
Open questions
- What particle (if any) is dark matter?
- How does gravity fit in?
Related topics
Knowledge connections
- Related toDark Matter
- Related toQuantum Gravity
- Associated withQuantum Spin
- Associated withElementary Particles
- Associated withThe Fundamental Forces
- Associated withThe Higgs Boson
- Associated withThe Neutrino
- Associated withMatter–Antimatter Asymmetry
Sources & references
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.