weak interaction

noun

, Physics.

1. the interaction between elementary particles and the intermediate vector bosons that carry the weak force from one particle to another.

weak interaction

noun

1. physics an interaction between elementary particles that is responsible for certain decay processes, operates at distances less than about 10 ^–15metres, and is 10 ¹²times weaker than the strong interaction. The weak interaction and electromagnetic interactions are now described by the unifying electroweak theory Also calledweak nuclear interactionweak nuclear force See interaction electroweak interaction

weak interaction

1. See weak force

Word History and Origins

Origin of weak interaction¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

As with left-handed up and down quarks, left-handed electrons and neutrinos can transform into each other via the weak interaction.

From Quanta Magazine