Final answer:
The Standard Model in physics is a comprehensive framework that describes how subatomic particles interact via strong nuclear, electromagnetic, and weak nuclear forces. It includes 17 fundamental particles, incorporating concepts from both quantum mechanics and relativity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Standard Model is a model system in modern physics that serves as the best current framework for understanding the interactions of subatomic particles. It includes a set of theories that describe the strong nuclear, electromagnetic, and weak nuclear forces. This model is comprehensive, combining quantum mechanics with the theory of relativity.
The Standard Model of particle interactions contains two key ideas: electroweak theory and quantum chromodynamics (QCD). Electroweak theory accounts for the unification of quantum electrodynamics (QED) and weak nuclear interactions. Meanwhile, QCD deals with the forces acting between particles with color charge.
As for the fundamental particles, the Standard Model identifies six quarks, six leptons, four gauge bosons, and the Higgs boson. These components, totaling 17 fundamental particles (31 if you count the corresponding antiparticles), are responsible for constituting all known matter in the universe. Figure 23.17 in our reference material vividly illustrates the organized view of these particles within the model.
In conclusion, the Standard Model is a critical aspect of modern physics, offering a framework that tentatively completes our understanding of the atom and subatomic interactions.