What’s the Big Deal With The Higgs Boson Anyway? [Video]

The term "Higgs Boson" has been in the news a lot the last few days. And a lot of sciencey-type people seem really excited about it. But what the heck is the big deal, anyway?

The Higgs Boson (named after the scientist who first theorized its existence in the 60s, Peter Higgs) is sometimes called "the God particle" for its theorized properties as a building block of matter.

Its existence has been only a theory for 50 years.

The reason all the sciencey-types are so excited? They think they found one and proved the theory.

So what the heck does all this mean, anyway?

Frankly, I'm not quite sure. It kind of makes my brain hurt to even try to understand the articles and talking heads on TV the last few days. But this guy, Mr. MinutePhysics, tries to simplify it for us:

And, that's the "simplified" version! My brain still hurts and I still don't quite get it (and I went to science camp!). But, suffice to say, this is a pretty big deal in the world of particle physics. In fact it could change how we understand the building blocks of the universe (I think).

If you're one of those sciencey-types who does get it and can do a "Physics for Dummies" for the rest of us, please do feel free to go for it in the comments section below!