This web content explains the concept of “range” of a force, distinguishing between long-range forces like gravity and short-range forces like the weak nuclear force. It debunks the popular but misleading theory that the weak nuclear force is weak because of the mass of the particles that mediate it, highlighting the role of field stiffness instead. The article uses analogies and diagrams to help readers understand the complex physics behind the relationships between field stiffness, force range, and particle mass. It clarifies how waves in floppy and stiff fields behave and why only stiff fields can give rise to “particles” with mass.
https://profmattstrassler.com/articles-and-posts/particle-physics-basics/the-astonishing-standard-model/why-the-weak-nuclear-force-is-short-range/