To study very small particles scientists need very high-energy protons and very big accelerators. The particles scientists want to study are so small that they cannot be seen by the human eye or the most powerful microscope. So physicists build huge detectors to track the particles as they move outward from a collision. Scientists need computers to collect, store and analyze the information. They need computers because the experiments create a lot of data over a very short period of time and because many of the newly created particles live for only an instant.
Computers also allow scientists to use the data to reconstruct events in a collision.
Subatomic particles behave like waves. Understanding the properties of waves helps scientists design their experiments and interpret the results. The Fermilab Education Office developed the Quarks to Quasars exhibits and Beauty and Charm program to bring the story of Fermilab research to life for visiting students. Students explore hands-on exhibits at the Lederman Science Center .