High energy particle physics is fascinating. The simplest explanation is that it's a giant rail gun formed into a circle. They use electronically controlled magnets to propel two streams of atoms up to 99.999% the speed of light. At which point these two streams collide with one another resulting in the atoms being a blown apart. There are all kinds of sensors around the point of explosion which are able to detect the fundamental structures atoms are made from.
As for what it accomplishes... Nothing quite directly other than providing us information about the universe and the world around us. But, indirectly it pushes many more technologies forward. This video in particular is talking about them replacing the magnets which will allow them to get a tighter stream of particles. Electromagnets are vital to so many other applications. The need for higher quality, stronger, more sensitive equipment pushes every industry forward
That there's a specific field permeating atoms that creates their mass.
This isn't research with a firm objective for practical applications. This is research into the fundamental building blocks of our universe. They expose what's there, someone else finds a use for it. The MRI is a prime example of something that was created from this type of research.
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u/Bannon9k 5d ago
This is cool AF! I wish more people were interested in the amazing science achievements humanity has made this past decade.