mass gap

physics

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July 20, 2026

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The "mass gap" in physics refers to a concept within Yang-Mills theory, a framework used to describe the strong and weak forces in subatomic particles. It specifically relates to the nonzero mass of quantum applications of the theory's formulas. This mass gap is believed to be the reason why the strong force, which binds quarks together within atomic nuclei, operates only over very short distances. Evidence for the mass gap has been observed in experiments and mathematical models. This concept is crucial for understanding the behavior of subatomic particles and the forces that govern them.1

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Yang-Mills theory
…mechanical property called the “mass gap.” The theory was introduced in 1954 by Chinese-born American physicist Chen Ning Yang and American physicist Robert L. Mills, who first developed a gauge theory, using Lie groups (see mathematics: Mathematical physics and the theory of Lie groups), to describe subatomic
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…mechanical property called the “mass gap.” The theory was introduced in 1954 by Chinese-born American physicist Chen Ning Yang and American physicist Robert L. Mills, who first developed a gauge theory, using Lie groups (see mathematics: Mathematical physics and the theory of Lie groups), to describe subatomic
Read More