3.30 p.m. Some surprises from particle physics N.D. Hari Dass Chennai Mathematical Institute. 20-03-13 Abstract In this talk, aimed primarily at students(maths, comp.sci and physics) and those not working in physics, I shall explain the conceptual framework necessary to appreciate one of the biggest surprises in particle physics, namely, maximal violation of left-right symmetry (also called parity violation). I will explain the great importance of these for the construction of the so called 'Standard Model'. I will also explain the follow-up surprises of other similar violations like violation of matter-antimatter symmetry, of time reversal symmetry etc. and their significance for our present understanding of our universe. I shall briefly describe my own proposals for testing such possibilities in gravitation and the results of some recent experimental works. I shall conclude with a few remarks on these issues in broader frameworks like string theory. The presentation will be pedagogical.
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