Eternons continuously instill into the human mind a deeper
knowledge of the universe. Physicists have presently a model of the Cosmos of great
simplicity and elegance. It may be summarized as follows:
a) The whole universe is the combination of two groups of indivisible particles:
1. The fermions, named for the physicist Fermi, constitute matter as we know it.
Quarks assemble into protons and neutrons to form the nuclei of atoms.
Electrons fly about these nuclei in somewhat circular orbits.
2. The bosons, named for the physicist Bose, carry the fundamental forces
between the particles of matter.
b) The whole universe obeys a combination of four fundamental forces between
particles:
1. The strong nuclear force holds together protons and neutrons.
The bosons carrying this force are the gluons.
2. The electromagnetic force binds atoms and molecules.
The bosons carrying this force are the photons we observe as radio waves,
infrareds, visible light, ultraviolet, and X and
gamma rays.
3. The weak nuclear force is responsible for the radioactivity of atomic nuclei.
The bosons carrying the weak force are the intermediate bosons.
4. The gravitational force, is responsible for the attraction between
large scale bodies.
The bosons carrying the gravitational force are the gravitons.
c) The whole universe is described by two basic theories, expressed in a few
mathematical equations.
1. Einsteins Theory of Relativity best describes gravitation and large
objects. The laws of the universe are the same for all observers. The velocity of the
photons of light is constant and can never be reached by material particles. Mass and
energy are equivalent. Space is curved by masses, somewhat like a rubber sheet is deformed
by heavy balls lying on it.
2. the Quantum Theory best describes the three forces other than gravitation and
very small objects. Energy is emitted in indivisible units called quanta. Quanta are both
waves and particles. Quanta do not allow the same definite observations as do large
objects.
Evidently, the above model is not finalized. Some particles, such as gluons and
gravitons, have still to be observed. Relativity and Quantum Theory do not agree entirely.
More importantly, the nature and role of consciousness continue to be omitted.
Still, physicists are on the right course. Not long ago, they regarded elementary matter
as small grains. Nowadays, they see it as a concentration of energy. Progressively, they
are finding their way to a correct description of the Eternon reality: that of a conscious
energy.