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Quantum & Atomic Physics

Fermions

Subatomic particles possessing half-integer intrinsic spin that obey Fermi-Dirac statistics and the Pauli Exclusion Principle.

Governing formula Spin = ½, ³/₂, ⁵/₂...
SI unit Dimensionless Particle Class

In depth

Fermions possess anti-symmetric wave functions under particle exchange (Ψ(1,2) = -Ψ(2,1)). Matter particles (electrons, protons, neutrons, quarks, neutrinos) are all fermions, giving matter its volume and structural stability.

Examples in the real world

Electrons in atoms preventing spatial overlap, creating atomic shell structure and chemical bonding.