definition of quark

A quark is a type of elementary particle that physicists believe is one of the most basic building blocks of matter.

Quick Scoop: What is a Quark?

• A quark is an elementary particle and a fundamental constituent of matter.

• Quarks combine to form particles called hadrons , including protons and neutrons, which make up atomic nuclei.

• They carry fractional electric charges, such as +2/3+2/3+2/3 or −1/3-1/3−1/3 of the electron’s charge.

• Quarks interact via the strong nuclear force, which binds them tightly together, so they are not observed in isolation under normal conditions.

Types (“Flavors”) of Quarks

Physicists group quarks into six “flavors”:

• Up
• Down
• Strange
• Charm
• Bottom
• Top

In everyday matter, mainly up and down quarks appear, because the heavier flavors quickly decay into lighter ones.

Where Do You Find Quarks?

• Three-quark combinations form baryons , such as protons and neutrons.

• Quark–antiquark pairs form mesons.

• These hadrons then assemble into atomic nuclei, and hence into the ordinary matter around you.

Fun Extras: Name and Other Meanings

• The word “quark” was introduced in 1964 by physicist Murray Gell-Mann, inspired by a line in James Joyce’s Finnegans Wake.

• In food, “quark” can also mean a type of soft, fresh cheese, especially in European cuisine.

TL;DR: A quark is a fundamental particle with fractional electric charge that combines with other quarks to form protons, neutrons, and other hadrons, making up the matter in the universe.

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