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1(g). Parity 
Parity relates to the symmetry of the wave function that represents the system. If the 
wave function is unchanged, when the coordinates ? ? , , x y z
 
are replaced by ? ? , , x y z ? ? ? 
then the system has a parity of 1 ? . If the wave function has its sign changed, when the 
coordinates are reversed, then the system has parity of 1 ? .  
If we write  
                                       
? ? ? ? , , , , x y z P x y z ? ? ? ? ? ? 
we can regard P as a quantum number characterizing ? whose possible values are 1 ? 
and 1 ? . 
It has been observed that spatial part of ? of a particle does not change its sign on 
reflection if the angular momentum quantum number " " l is even. 
As a general rule Parity ? ? 1
l
? ? 
 
For a system of particles Parity is even if l ? even and Parity is odd if l ? odd. 
 
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FAQs on Parity - Nuclear and Particle Physics for GATE - GATE Physics

1. What is parity in the context of GATE Physics?
Ans. Parity refers to the property of a physical system that determines whether it is symmetric or asymmetric under spatial inversion. In GATE Physics, the concept of parity is often used to analyze the symmetry of physical phenomena and to understand how certain particles or systems behave under spatial transformations.
2. How is parity conserved in particle physics?
Ans. Parity conservation in particle physics states that the total parity of a system remains constant during interactions or transformations. This means that if a system has a certain parity value (either even or odd), the resulting system after a transformation will have the same parity value. However, it is important to note that parity conservation is not always observed in weak interactions, as discovered by the experiments of Lee and Yang in 1956.
3. Can you provide an example of parity violation in particle physics?
Ans. Yes, one of the most well-known examples of parity violation in particle physics is the phenomenon of weak interactions. The weak force, responsible for processes like beta decay, violates parity conservation. This was first experimentally observed in 1956 when Lee and Yang discovered that weak interactions do not exhibit mirror symmetry. This violation of parity conservation led to a significant advancement in our understanding of fundamental forces and particle interactions.
4. How is parity related to the concept of time reversal symmetry?
Ans. Parity and time reversal symmetry are closely related concepts in physics. Parity symmetry refers to the behavior of a system under spatial inversion, while time reversal symmetry refers to the behavior of a system when time is reversed. In many cases, the combination of parity and time reversal symmetry (known as PT symmetry) is conserved. However, there are instances where PT symmetry is violated, such as in certain quantum systems.
5. What is the significance of studying parity in GATE Physics?
Ans. The study of parity in GATE Physics is important in understanding the fundamental symmetries and properties of physical systems. It helps in analyzing the behavior of particles, interactions, and transformations under spatial inversion. Additionally, the violation of parity conservation in weak interactions has led to groundbreaking discoveries in particle physics and has deepened our understanding of the fundamental forces governing the universe.
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