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Full Idea
Particles with half-integer spin, such as electrons, protons or quarks (all spin ½) have an asymmetry in their wavefunction that makes them antisocial. These particles (Fermions) cannot share a quantum state.
Gist of Idea
Fermions, with spin ½, are antisocial, and cannot share quantum states
Source
New Scientist writers (Why the Universe Exists [2017], 02)
Book Ref
New Scientist writers: 'Why the Universe Exists' [John Murray 2017], p.31
A Reaction
This is said to explain the complexity of matter, with carbon an especially good example.
| 21234 | Experiments show that fundamental particles of one type are identical [Farmelo] |
| 21208 | Eletrons don't literally 'spin', because they are point-like [Martin,BR] |
| 21206 | The properties of a particle are determined by its quantum numbers and its mass [Martin,BR] |
| 21210 | Virtual particles surround any charged particle [Martin,BR] |
| 24160 | Particle measurements don't seem to reflect their reality [Baggott] |
| 21140 | Spin is a built-in ration of angular momentum [New Sci.] |
| 21149 | Quarks have red, green or blue colour charge (akin to electric charge) [New Sci.] |
| 21158 | Fermions, with spin ½, are antisocial, and cannot share quantum states [New Sci.] |
| 21157 | Particles are spread out, with wave-like properties, and higher energy shortens the wavelength [New Sci.] |
| 21165 | Spin is akin to rotation, and is easily measured in a magnetic field [New Sci.] |
| 21188 | Quarks and leptons have a weak charge, for the weak force [Hesketh] |