Particle physicists may have solved a strange mystery about the muon

Physics

A subatomic particle called the muon caused waves when its experimental behaviour didn’t align with a prediction based on the standard model. A new calculation might resolve the discrepancy – but some particle physicists are sceptical

By Alex Wilkins

In experiments, subatomic particles don’t always behave as theory would predict

ATLAS Collaboration

The puzzling behaviour of a fundamental particle called a muon, which some scientists think could be a sign of new physics, might actually be explained by our current theories. That’s according to a new calculation that its proponents say is the most precise ever. But not all physicists are convinced.

The muon is a tiny charged particle similar to the electron, but much heavier. Its electric charge makes it spin and wobble slightly when placed in a magnetic field, behaviour that can be measured as a…

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