A Novel Approach to Physics
CERN has revealed plans for the Future Circular Collider (FCC), which would surpass the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) with a 56.5-mile ring around the French-Swiss border, advancing physics research.
In the mid-2040s, the FCC will begin high-precision experiments, and in the 2070s, it will go on to high-energy proton and ion collisions. Scientists believe it could uncover new particles, unexplored physics domains, and deeper insights into the Higgs boson.
The Scientific Foundation of the FCC
- More Energy, More Findings: Because the FCC will generate 10 times as much energy as the LHC, researchers will be able to detect heavier, unidentified particles.
- Economic and Environmental Impact: Independent assessments must evaluate the plan before the 24 CERN member countries vote on it in 2028. The projected cost is $16 billion.
- Technological Developments: Developments in cryogenics, vacuum technologies, and superconducting magnets might have applications outside physics.
The Importance of It
The Large Hadron Collider confirmed the Higgs boson’s existence in 2013, advancing the Standard Model of physics. The Future Circular Collider could push discoveries even further, potentially revealing dark matter, new dimensions, or unknown natural forces.
What Happens Next?
Feasibility studies are now being carried out by the FCC, and a final decision is expected in 2028. If approved, this state-of-the-art atom smasher might fundamentally change how we think about the universe.
Source: NBC News