Leptons are a category of elementary particles characterized by their half-integer spin and their lack of interaction with the strong nuclear force.

Leptons represent one of the two primary classifications of elementary particles, with the other category being quarks. There are six distinct types of leptons: the electron, muon, tau, and their corresponding neutrinos. As fundamental particles, leptons cannot be subdivided into smaller components.

Leptons engage with other particles through the electromagnetic and weak nuclear forces. Unlike quarks, they do not participate in the strong nuclear force, which is responsible for maintaining the integrity of atomic nuclei. The electromagnetic force governs the interactions between charged particles, while the weak nuclear force facilitates processes such as beta decay.

Additionally, leptons can interact with other particles through gravity, the weakest of the four fundamental forces. However, the effects of gravity become significant only on larger scales, such as the motion of planets and stars.

Leptons are vital for our comprehension of the universe, playing key roles in numerous important processes, including nuclear fusion in stars and beta decay in radioactive substances. Investigating the properties and interactions of leptons is crucial for enhancing our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics.