Future Circular Collider

The Future Circular Collider (FCC) is a proposed particle accelerator that aims to build upon the achievements of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Located at CERN, the FCC is expected to revolutionise our understanding of fundamental physics. With a proposed 91-kilometre circumference, it will be more than three times larger than the LHC. This ambitious project is designed to answer unresolved questions about the universe and explore new realms of particle physics.

Overview of the Future Circular Collider

The FCC project is divided into two main stages. The first stage focuses on creating a collider for electrons and positrons. This will allow for precise measurements of the Higgs boson. The second stage will involve a proton collider, which will operate at higher energy levels than the LHC. This increase in energy will facilitate the discovery of new particles.

Scientific Objectives

The FCC aims to address critical questions left unanswered by the Standard Model of particle physics. One major goal is to investigate how mass is assigned to particles. While the Higgs field explains the mass of heavier particles, it remains unclear how lighter particles acquire their mass. The FCC will provide the necessary energy to explore these questions.

Exploring Dark Matter and Matter-Antimatter Asymmetry

Another focus of the FCC is the search for dark matter. This mysterious substance is believed to make up a substantial portion of the universe. Additionally, the FCC will examine the interactions of heavy quarks to better understand why there is more matter than antimatter in the universe. These investigations could reshape our understanding of cosmic evolution.

Global Competition in Particle Physics

The FCC is not the only major project in the pipeline. Competing initiatives include the International Linear Collider in Japan and the Chinese Electron Positron Collider. These projects raise questions about the future of the FCC. The scientific community must consider whether these competing projects will diminish the value of the FCC.

Financial Considerations

The estimated cost of the FCC is substantial. The first stage is projected to cost around 15 billion Swiss francs. Critics have raised concerns about the funding required for such an extensive project. However, CERN plans to cover portion of the costs through its annual budget.

Technological and Societal Impact

The LHC has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also led to practical technological innovations. Developments such as Medipix chips have found applications in medical imaging and material science. The FCC is expected to continue this trend, contributing to advancements that benefit society beyond pure science.

International Collaboration

CERN serves as a model of international collaboration in science. The FCC project will require cooperation among multiple countries and institutions. This collaborative approach is essential for overcoming the challenges associated with such a large-scale scientific endeavour.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of the Future Circular Collider on our understanding of the universe.
2. Explain the significance of the Higgs boson in particle physics. What questions remain unanswered?
3. What are the potential benefits of international collaboration in large-scale scientific projects like the Future Circular Collider?
4. Comment on the challenges posed by competing particle physics projects globally. How should CERN respond?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of the Future Circular Collider on our understanding of the universe.

1. The FCC aims to explore fundamental questions left by the Standard Model, such as particle mass mechanisms.
2. It will investigate dark matter, potentially reshaping our understanding of cosmic composition.
3. Higher collision energies will enable the discovery of new particles and interactions, expanding our knowledge of physics.
4. The FCC may provide vital information about matter-antimatter asymmetry, addressing why the universe favors matter.
5. Overall, the FCC could lead to groundbreaking discoveries that redefine our understanding of the universe’s structure and origins.

2. Explain the significance of the Higgs boson in particle physics. What questions remain unanswered?

1. The Higgs boson is crucial for the Standard Model as it explains how particles acquire mass through the Higgs field.
2. Its discovery confirmed a key prediction of the Standard Model, marking a major milestone in physics.
3. Unanswered questions include how lighter particles gain mass and whether the Higgs field itself contributes mass to the Higgs boson.
4. Further exploration of Higgs interactions is necessary to address the limitations of the Standard Model.
5. About these aspects could lead to new physics beyond the current theoretical framework.

3. What are the potential benefits of international collaboration in large-scale scientific projects like the Future Circular Collider?

1. International collaboration pools resources, expertise, and funding, making ambitious projects feasible.
2. It encourages a global scientific community, promoting knowledge sharing and innovation across borders.
3. Collaborative efforts enhance the credibility and impact of research findings on a worldwide scale.
4. Such partnerships can lead to technological advancements and applications that benefit society at large.
5. They also help build diplomatic relationships and peaceful cooperation in science and technology.

4. Comment on the challenges posed by competing particle physics projects globally. How should CERN respond?

1. Competing projects like the International Linear Collider and CEPC may dilute funding and scientific focus.
2. These initiatives could lead to a race for resources, impacting the viability of the FCC project.
3. CERN should emphasize the unique capabilities and goals of the FCC to justify its necessity.
4. Collaboration with other institutions and countries could enhance the FCC’s global standing and support.
5. Strategic communication about the FCC’s potential contributions to science can help garner public and governmental backing.