U(1) symmetry refers to a type of gauge symmetry that plays a crucial role in particle physics, particularly in the context of electroweak theory. It is associated with the conservation of electric charge and underlies the electromagnetic interactions, providing a mathematical framework for understanding how particles interact through the exchange of photons. This symmetry is key to unifying the electromagnetic force with the weak nuclear force, showcasing how seemingly distinct forces can be understood through a common theoretical structure.
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