The standard model of particle physics

Particle physics has evolved a coherent model that characterizes forces and particles at the most elementary level. This standard model, built from ma ny theoretical and experimental studies, is in excellent accord with almost all current data. However, there are many hints that it is but an approxim ation to a yet more fundamental theory. The authors trace the development o f the standard model and indicate the reasons for believing that it is inco mplete. [S0034-6861(99)00202-0].