Hideki Yukawa
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Hideki Yukawa | |
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| Born | 23 January 1907 |
| Died | 8 September 1981 |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Occupation | Physicist |
| Known for | Nuclear forces; meson theory; particle exchange |
| Notable work | Meson theory of nuclear forces |
Hideki Yukawa (23 January 1907 – 8 September 1981) was a physicist whose work addressed the forces binding atomic nuclei and the role of particle exchange in fundamental interactions. He examined how short-range forces could arise from the exchange of massive particles between nucleons.
His work provided an early theoretical framework linking nuclear physics and particle physics.
Early life and education
Yukawa was born in Tokyo, Japan. He studied physics at Kyoto Imperial University, where he later held academic positions.
His early research focused on quantum mechanics and theoretical problems in fundamental interactions.
Nuclear forces
Yukawa investigated the nature of the strong force responsible for binding protons and neutrons in the nucleus. He argued that electromagnetic and gravitational forces could not account for nuclear binding.
This problem motivated his proposal of a new interaction.
Meson theory
Yukawa proposed that nuclear forces arise from the exchange of a massive particle, later called a meson. He derived a potential describing how such exchange produces a short-range force consistent with nuclear dimensions.
The theory predicted the approximate mass of the mediating particle.
Experimental confirmation
Particles consistent with Yukawa’s predicted mesons were later identified in cosmic ray experiments. These discoveries supported the idea that forces can be mediated by particle exchange.
Subsequent work refined the classification and properties of mesons.
Relationship to institutions
Yukawa held academic positions in Japan and later spent time at research institutions abroad. He contributed to rebuilding Japanese theoretical physics after World War II.
He also participated in international scientific exchange.
Limits and uncertainty
Yukawa’s original meson theory was a simplified model and did not account for all features of the strong interaction. Later developments in quantum chromodynamics replaced meson exchange as a fundamental description.
Nonetheless, meson exchange remains useful in nuclear modeling.
Status
Hideki Yukawa is regarded as a central figure in the development of nuclear force theory. His work continues to be discussed in nuclear physics, particle physics, and the history of theoretical science.